FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, May 18, 2023
CONTACT: Mary Stadick Smith, South Dakota Department of Education, (605) 773-7228

State Library recognizes 21^st Century School Libraries

PIERRE, S.D. –  The South Dakota State Library has awarded nine school libraries the 21^st Century School Library Award for 2023. This annual award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced, or Exemplary based on performance in three areas: place, programming, and the professional.

Applicants conduct a self-assessment and provide evidence of their ability to meet South Dakota's guidelines for school libraries. Award status is valid for a three-year period. This is a voluntary process.

Awarded libraries will be honored in fall 2023.

Exemplary Award recipients are:

• Alcester-Hudson Elementary School Library: Librarian Nola Conner; Administrator Tim Rhead
• Alcester-Hudson Junior High/High School Library: Librarian Nola Conner; Administrator Jason Van Engen
• Belle Fourche High School Library: Librarian Karen Schlekeway; Administrator Mathew Raba
• Douglas Badger Clark Elementary School Library: Librarian Kristyn LaBine; Administrator Troy Volesky
• Rapid City West Middle School Library: Librarian Shelley Rath; Administrator Dan Conrad
• Rapid Valley Elementary School Library: Librarian Jennifer Backhaus; Administrator Cher Daniel
• Sioux Falls Discovery Elementary School Library: Librarian Angela Klopstad; Administrators Dan Fischer and Kristina Becker 
• Sioux Falls R.F. Pettigrew Elementary School Library: Librarians Nicole Ulvestad and Jennifer Breidenbach; Administrator Kevin Dick
• West Central Middle School/High School Library: Librarian DaNann Tirrel; Administrator Eric Knight

Find more information on the State Library’s 21st Century School Library Award webpage.

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