The Department of Information Science wishes to congratulate alums Melissa Dease and Sarah Bean Thompson for being recognized as 2017 Movers and Shakers by the Library Journal. Now in its 16th year, the Library Journal’s Movers and Shakers award recognizes individuals who have done transformative work in libraries of all types and sizes across the field. This year, 52 individuals were recognized, and will join the ranks of the more than 750 honorees recognized since 2002.
Melissa Dease graduated with an MLS in 2008, and is currently the youth services administrator for the Dallas Public Library, where she coordinates children programs and initiatives at all 29 locations. Dease is recognized in the "Innovators" category and it is clearly evident why. In addition to summer reading clubs, poetry competitions and fairs, Dease has been successful in partnering with organizations to provide meals at library branches, leading educational activities with children, and helping adults with basic job skills. To read Melissa's full profile, click here.
Sarah Bean Thompson graduated in 2011, and is a youth services manager in Missouri. Described as a ‘readers’ advisory rock star’ she has been recognized in the 'Advocates' category. Thompson, who is passionate about books, has successfully organized Library cons for the Springfield-Greene County. She maintains a very popular blog, Green Bean Teen Queen, where she provides book recommendations and serves as a resource and reference tool for reader's advisory. For Sarah’s full LJ profile, click here.
All honorees will be recognized at a reception at the American Library Association Conference in Chicago on Friday, June 23.
For more about the Movers and Shaker's Award and a complete list of honorees, visit http://lj.libraryjournal.com/movers/index.php