Why is Abby Armou fighting for your right to access media?

In New York, ten librarians received the prestigious 'I Love My Librarian Award' for their notable contributions to local communities. Among the recipients is Abby Armou, director of the Mukwonago Community Library in Wisconsin, recognized for her commitment beyond traditional library services. Armou's significant project involves cataloging and facilitating the return of approximately 12,000 Native American artifacts that were donated to the library in the 1960s. This initiative not only preserves cultural heritage but also strengthens community ties by ensuring these artifacts are returned to the tribes that rightfully claim them. The American Library Association, which presents the awards, highlighted Armou's community recognition as one of the reasons she was nominated. Winning this award grants her a monetary prize of $5,000 along with a $750 stipend to attend an association gathering in Phoenix next month. The ALA president, Cindy Hohl, praised the impactful work librarians perform nationwide, underlining their transformative role in improving patrons' lives. Other awardees exemplify diverse acts of service across the country, from assisting displaced residents after the 2023 Lahaina wildfires in Hawaii to supporting low-income students in Texas. Charlotte Chung of Suncrest Elementary School in Morgantown, West Virginia, was celebrated for her dedication to encouraging reluctant readers. Meanwhile, librarians in remote areas, such as Theresa Quiner in Alaska, are enhancing access to reading materials for isolated communities. Missy Creed at Ohio State University focuses on providing trustworthy health information, while Nelson Santana works on building cultural archives at Bronx Community College. The diverse initiatives reflect how librarians are not merely custodians of books, but are actively engaged in promoting social welfare, education, and community empowerment. The 'I Love My Librarian Award', founded in 2008 and sponsored by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, seeks to acknowledge these vital contributions. The efforts of these librarians signify a broader recognition of the evolving role of libraries, transitioning from a focus on collections to being community hubs of support and engagement.