Distinguished Service in Library History Award

The Distinguished Service in Library History Award is presented by the ALA Library History Round Table (LHRT) and honors the career of a person who has a lifetime of scholarship and service in the field of library history. This non-monetary award is intended to be given to an individual who has a record of contributions; who demonstrates length, breadth, and depth of involvement in library history; and who has had a significant impact on the work of the ALA Library History Round Table or on the library history community at large.

Eligibility and Criteria

Criteria for the Award include the significance of contributions to library history, such as publications in the field, courses taught in library history, and service to the field through the LHRT or other groups. The intention of the Award is to recognize service; thus, nominations which emphasize research and publication and do not describe service or other activities pertaining to library history will not be considered. Personal membership in the LHRT is encouraged but is not required for an individual to be selected for the Award.

Submissions and Selection

Current LHRT members may submit a letter of nomination. The nomination must include the nominee's curriculum vitae and at least two (2) letters of support. Nominators of the same individual may be asked to collaborate to produce stronger nominations and to reduce duplicate effort. The selection of the awardee will be made by an LHRT committee and will be announced in June 2025. Please submit nominations using this form by Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Contact Jennifer Bartlett, LHRT Vice Chair, at jen.bartlett@uky.edu for more information.

Past Winners

2023 Andrew Wertheimer
2024 Wayne Wiegand