Our very own Mrs. Cole has been honored as one of nine librarians nationwide by the American Library Association from the almost 1,100 nominations, to receive the award in 2016. Only three recipients represented elementary school libraries – including Ms. Cole. Each honoree received a $5,000 cash award, a plaque and a travel stipend to attend the “I Love My Librarian Award” ceremony and reception in NYC, hosted by the award sponsor, Carnegie Corporation of New York.
“Kat Cole is a shining example of an extraordinary school librarian,” said Nancy
Zeman in her nomination for the award. “She helps all students in this diversely
populated school build literate lives by creating opportunities to identify as readers
by encouraging curiosity and exploration through literature. I have been particularly
impressed with her work with underserved students within the school community
and with her dedication to encouraging those children to build a positive literacy
identity. One of the things that sets her apart is that her reach goes beyond her
school as she advocates for best practices in library services at not only her school
but also at the school district level to ensure all students have equal access to
resources and services.”
Principal of Northside Elementary, Coretta Sharpless said, “Ms. Cole’s overall mission is to keep literacy and
the library a focal point in the school. In order to do this, she ensures that staff members know and
understand the critical role the library plays to equalize the playing field in education and how important it
is that all children across the school have access to the library and its resources at point of need. She
shares school-wide circulation and library usage data with staff to illustrate the importance of library use
and academic growth. In addition, she helps cultivate a love of literacy across the school.”
Many friends, parents, staff, family members have shared love congratulatory wishes via social media. Just a few who express how we feel about our very special librarian include:
Destiny Lynn Turner - Congratulations! You truly are an exceptional librarian and support to both the students and teachers you work with. You really deserve this and I'm so happy for you!
Emily Pratt - That's amazing Kat!!! You're so deserving. That big heart of yours making a difference for so many kids...😘
Kate Champion - What an honor to be recognized for this award in the New York Times!!! You have worked hard and are very deserving. I am so very proud of you!!!
Rebecca Henderson Denton We deserved Kathryn! Thank you for sharing and for ALL you do for children in your community. You are loved by many!!
Please take time to click on the photo above to read Mrs. Cole's reflection on this honor and her trip to NYC!
Mrs. Cole has arrived back to Northside Elementary and is readying for the upcoming Book Fair. She returned to find that the staff and students had taken time out to create a WELCOME HOME banner for Mrs. Cole and hung it in the library to show their love and gratitude.
We do indeed love our Mrs. Cole!
