School Library Awards

Colorado association of libraries- School Library awards:

Distinction in school Library Services award  

To recognize the efforts of a teacher librarian, certified teacher in a school librarian role, or a district library coordinator who has demonstrated outstanding service and leadership. Eligible candidates for this award must be current or former Colorado school library professionals, having served for a minimum of six months in the year preceding the call for award nominations. Nominees should not have previously received this distinguished recognition.

Consideration for this award will be given to nominees who have demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following criteria:

• Designs instruction that engages students in critical thinking and prepares them for postsecondary success

• Leads programming that builds community, promotes students’ wellbeing, and fosters a love of reading and lifelong learning

• Collaborates with school leaders, classroom teachers, students, the school community, and/or community partners to build a responsive library program that meets learners’ diverse needs and prepares students for the future

• Curates and provides equitable access to current, accurate, and inclusive library resources that complement the curriculum and motivate students to learn

• Initiates, enables, or manages positive changes that significantly benefit Colorado students

Nominations for the Distinction in School Library Services Award should include any other relevant data that highlights the nominee's exceptional contributions to the field. This award serves as a testament to the vital role played by school library professionals in preparing students for postsecondary success and recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to excellence.

outstanding school library paraprofessional award

The Outstanding School Library Paraprofessional Award (OSLPA) recognizes the efforts of a school library paraprofessional who demonstrates outstanding service to the school community. Eligible candidates for this award must be current or former Colorado school library paraprofessionals, having served for a minimum of six months in the year preceding the call for award nominations. Nominees should not have previously received this distinguished recognition.

Consideration for this award will be given to nominees who have demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following criteria:

• Creates an inclusive, welcoming library space for all students that promotes their wellbeing and empowers them to learn independently

• Collaborates with school staff to promote print and digital library resources that enhance instruction and deepen student learning 

• Fosters a love of reading and lifelong learning 

Nominations for the OSLPA should include any other relevant data that highlights the nominee's exceptional contributions to the field. This award serves as a testament to the vital role played by school library paraprofessionals in preparing students for postsecondary success and recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to excellence.

Nomination Process:

Write a letter of nomination. (required) 

• This letter should include the attributes and characteristics that make the nominee an obvious selection for the award for which they are being nominated.

• The letter should describe in depth the accomplishments and contributions which deserve recognition. 

Supplemental materials. (optional)

• one additional letter of support

• photos related to the accomplishments/contributions described in the nomination letter

• links to media coverage of the nominee or the accomplishments/contributions described in the nomination letter

• school community comments or other evidence that reflect the nominee's merits

Attach each supplemental document individually to the online nomination form. Electronic materials are preferred; however, mailed supplemental materials will be accepted. If you need to mail any supplemental materials, or have any questions in regards to submitting materials please email the Awards Committee Chair, Amanda Armstrong.

Awards Timeline:

• Nominations accepted February 11, 2025 - March 14, 2025

• Awards announced on April 4, 2025 (National School Librarian Day)

• Award recipients recognized at HESTL EdCON on June 10, 2025

• Award recipients recognized at CALCON 2025 Awards Banquet