Todd Butler, Ad Council, and Marcia Eggleston, NYLA President, had a tough time choosing winners among all the nominees for RRLC Library of the Year. They felt it was really necessary to recognize other libraries that received outstanding nominations from their communities.

Honorable Mention – Public Library of the Year – Penfield Public Library

Judges’ comments: “The Bosnian story is very meaningful. It shows the incredible reach of libraries.”

I am an immigrant from Bosnia. I did not speak any English at the time I moved to Rochester. I started coming to the Penfield library in 2000 and have been coming here ever since. The first time I entered what was to me an unknown house of computers and books and videos… it was so overwhelming. But a wonderful librarian saw me and asked if I needed help. He smiled and asked about my background. I told him what I could in my broken English and he went behind the computer and then invited me to come with him. He pulled a few book on how to learn English, and a video from my country which had subtitles in English. Only God knows how many times I had watched that movie and I will forever be thankful to that librarian for being so kind and helpful. I love coming here, reading and enjoying a cup of coffee. Thank You, - Indira Pracalic, Penfield, NY

Honorable Mention – Academic Library of the Year - Golisano Library at Roberts Wesleyan College

Judges’ comments:  “There were many excellent comments about both the facility and the helpfulness of staff.”

I am a graduate student and have depended heavily on the library staff to assist me with all my research, papers and thesis. They have gone beyond the call of duty finding me articles and emailing them to me, putting books aside for me and always willing to do more than necessary. I am graduating in May and I couldn’t have done it without them. Thank you Golisano Library staff. – Tammy Lewis

Honorable Mention – School Library of the Year - Churchville-Chili High School Library

Judges’ comments: “The library is creating a culture of learning and appreciation for reading at a very important time in the lives of young people- preparing them for college.”

Every time I enter my library, I am greeted with a warm smile and feel welcomed.  Whether it is utilizing laptop carts or obtaining hard or soft resources, all members of the library staff will work their hardest to not only meet but exceed my expectations.  If a resource is currently being utilized or is unavailable, the staff will explore EVERY option in an effort to provide these important services to further student development.

I am also constantly amazed by the resources available.  Of course, I would not be aware of these opportunities and resources without the library staff continually reminding the teachers and staff of what is new and available.  You don’t know what you don’t know, and it is through my library friendly promotion that I am able to keep abreast of new resources so that I may employ them into my lessons for student growth.

I believe that my school is very fortunate to have such a great library, librarian, and library staff.  Their contributions are exceptional and our libraries do not receive the recognition that they so richly deserve.  My library is GREAT and should be CELEBRATED! – Eric Jordan

Congratulations to our Honorable Mention libraries.  They will receive an engraved plaque for their library and will be honored at the RRLC Annual Meeting, June 2 at Casa Larga.