Awards

Alabama school librarians are excelling in what they do. Each year, ASLA presents awards to outstanding individuals in the following categories. Please read about the four awards below and last year's winners. 

Congratulations to our 2024 ASLA Award Winners!

Ann Marie Pipkin Technology Award

The Ann Marie Pipkin Library Technology Award is granted to a person who has shown outstanding leadership in advancing the practice of educational technology over a substantial period of time. The nominee must be currently employed in an Alabama K-12 school library program. It is required that the nominee also be a current member of ASLA.

Laura Dawes

Congratulations to our 2024 Ann Marie Pipkin Technology Award Winner!

"From leading the school’s Digital Literacy Team when our county partnered with Discovery Education to starting the school’s first Robotics Club, Laura Dawes has spearheaded multiple activities intended to motivate our staff and students to explore new resources in a way that prepares us for technology’s ever changing landscape."

Distinguished Service to Librarianship

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual member of the library profession, such as a current or retired school librarian, administrator, professor, or mentor. Over a significant period of time, this individual has made an outstanding contribution to school librarianship and school library development. The nominee must be currently employed in or retired within three years from an Alabama K-12 school library program.  It is required that the nominee also be a current member of ASLA.

susan zana

Congratulations to our 2024 Distinguished Service to Librarianship Award Winner!

“Susan's career as a librarian has been marked by dedication and service. Throughout her tenure, she has served in various roles, including President of ASLA and as a mentor to many in the profession. Despite officially retiring in 2022, she remains active, through her advocacy efforts for Alabama Librarians. Her contributions have left a lasting impact, making her a worthy recipient of recognition for her tireless efforts.”

Distinguished School Administrator

The Distinguished School Administrator Award honors a school or district administrator who has supported an exemplary school library program and has made outstanding and sustained contributions, which have advanced the role of the school library in the educational program.

Purpose

Dr. brooks

Congratulations to our 2024 Distinguished School Administrator Award Winner!

“Dr. Brooks, the superintendent of the Shelby County School System, demonstrates unwavering support for libraries and librarians. He recognizes the importance of certified librarians and actively provides resources for their professional development. Dr. Brooks's commitment goes beyond words; he actively participates in library programs and events, including conducting sessions at national conferences. Librarians appreciate his hands-on approach and willingness to engage with their work, making him an exemplary superintendent to work under.”

Alabama School Library of the Year Award

The Alabama School Library of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding school library program that provides an innovative and creative learning environment for children or teens.  The nominee must be currently employed in an Alabama K-12 school library program.  It is required that the nominee also be a current member of ASLA.

allison dolan

Congratulations to our 2024 School Library of the Year Award Winner!

“The library program at Bluff Park Elementary has flourished under Allison's leadership, offering diverse learning experiences beyond the classroom. Allison fosters a love for reading and learning among students. She collaborates closely with teachers, curates engaging resources, and ensures the library is a safe, welcoming space for all.”

Lifetime achievement award

Karen Scott

Congratulations Karen Scott, recipient of the first ASLA Lifetime Achievement Award! 

“Karen Scott's 25-year career as a school librarian is marked by extensive local, state, and national involvement. She has chaired committees, served on prestigious award panels, and contributed to organizations like AASL, ALSC, and YALSA. Karen's dedication extends to mentoring young librarians and teaching YA literature courses at the University of Alabama, where she coordinates the School Library Program. Even in retirement, Karen remains active, advocating for libraries and serving on Helena's library board. Her commitment to literacy and library advocacy makes her an invaluable asset to the library community.”