In front of a cheering crowd of hundreds of Library Workers from across the state, Ignacio’s own Dixie Cook walked to the podium to accept the Lucy Schweers Award for Excellence in Support Services. A highlight of the annual Colorado Association of Libraries Conference (CALCON), the awards ceremony is held on the second day and honors outstanding work provided by a dedicated group of librarians and library paraprofessionals.  

Every year library workers from across the state gather at CALCON in an effort to improve the service and programs we can provide to our communities. This year ICL sent four staff members to participate in three days of presentations by colleagues and outside experts, wander the exhibit hall looking for new products and services, and listen to inspiring speeches by state representatives and industry leaders.   

Conferences like these are working vacations. Staff get a break from their regular duties and have time to recharge the batteries and return to their libraries with new energy and ideas. One of the standout moments was a talk by Shelly Read, author of the book, “Go as a River.” A Colorado fifth generation resident, Shelly’s talk focused on how it is never too late to write your story. Her bestselling book was not published until her late 50’s after a career in teaching and raising a couple of children.  

But the highlight for ICL staff was watching our colleague Dixie Cook receive the “Lucy Schweers Award for Excellence in Support Services.” To recognize support services staff who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service in a Colorado library, information, or school media field. This award honors Lucy Schweers, who recognized the importance of all people who work in libraries. Requirements for nominations are that the nominated candidate either is or was a Colorado support services staff person. Nominations for this award evaluated based on the following criteria: directly or indirectly serves patrons and communities in a way that goes beyond basic requirements of their job; makes, enables or manages positive changes which benefit Colorado libraries and other support staff; exhibits optimism; and consistently leads and inspires other support staff; any other relevant data. 

Dixie has been working at the library longer than anyone and is not only loved by patrons but also the staff’s favorite co-worker. After many years cataloging our collection of materials and working as the facilities manager, Dixie took on a new role providing outreach to underserved communities as the lead of our bookmobile program. Driving “Dewey” to local schools and special events around the district has allowed Dixie to share her enthusiasm and warmth to a wider group of library patrons. As an extra bonus our Marketing Supervisor, Cheyenne, (Dixie’s daughter) was also in attendance with her camera to record the award ceremony. 

Congratulations to Dixie! Let her know how much you appreciate her efforts on behalf of the Ignacio community next time you’re in the library or see her out on the road.