GEORGIA — For the 10th year, the Georgia Public Library Service is honoring library leaders, staff and literacy champions.
The 2024 Georgia Public Library Awards honored two librarians from the metro Atlanta area.
“Public libraries are the heart of thriving communities, and they play a vital role in Georgia’s growth, innovation, and excellence,” Vice Chancellor for Libraries and Archives and State Librarian Julie Walker said in a statement. “This year’s honorees demonstrate how our libraries are partners in everything that Georgia does, from strengthening early literacy to building a strong economy.”
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The organization said they pick their winners each year based on nominations from library patrons, trustees, staff and more that “showcase the best and brightest who serve public libraries” in Georgia.
The 2024 Library Director of the Year winner was Anna Lyle of Forsyth County Public Library.
According to the Georgia Public Library Service, Lyle was nominated for her dedication to expanding library programs and strengthening the network of partners the Forsyth County Public Library system relies on to enhance its reach and impact.
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One partnership Lyle helped grow was between the library and Mentor Me North Georgia, a mentorship nonprofit for K-12 students.
“Anna is a no-nonsense, practical, hardworking library director who has accomplished great things for her community,” said Lecia Eubanks, Cherokee Regional Library System director. “She rolls up her sleeves, secures funding for construction projects, and ensures they are managed to completion.”
While Lyle was honored for her work in 2024, her time at the system is due to close out. Officials said Lyle will be retiring at the end of January, with a celebration for her planned at Cumming Library on Jan. 23.
The 2024 Library Employee of the Year winner was Kristen Timoteo, the outreach coordinator and branch manager at Coweta Public Library System.
Timoteo, who works at and manages the Grantville branch of the Coweta Public Library System is known for her passion for literacy, community service and a penchant for innovation. The Georgia Public Library Service said Timoteo has helped transform her library into a hub of learning and connection through dynamic leadership.
“Kristen’s passion for service and her positive energy are contagious to all who have had the opportunity to interact with her,” Jimmy Bass, director of Coweta Public Library System said. “Her ability to make meaningful daily impacts on the variety of people she meets through providing library services never ceases to astound me.”
For the full list of 2024 honorees, head online here.
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