This year, the South Dakota State Library honors 13 recipients of the 21st Century School Library Award. The State Library formally and annually recognizes schools with libraries that meet the characteristics of a 21st century school library through its place, professional, and program. Applicants conduct a self-assessment and provide evidence to support their assessment. Awards are valid for a three-year period and recognize the status of the library as Effective, Enhanced, or Exemplary based on the South Dakota State Library Guidelines. To learn more about the recognition program, visit the 21st Century School Library Award page on the SDSL website.
Exemplary Award recipients:
- Belle Fourche Middle School Library: Librarian Karen Schekelway, Administrator Kevin Smidt
- Brookings High School Library: Librarian Jean Kirschenman, Administrator Paul vonFischer
- Flandreau Middle/High School Library: Librarian Lori Williams, Administrators Brian Relf & Nichole Herzog
- Lincoln High School Library: Librarian Mary Peters, Administrator Dr. Laura Raeder
- Patrick Henry Middle School Library: Librarian Wendy Nelson, Administrator Kim Sharping
- Roosevelt High School Library: Librarian Michelle Clayberg, Administrator Tim Hazlett
- Spearfish High School Library: Librarian Emily Benvenga, Administrator Steve Morford
- T.F. Riggs High School Library: Librarian Pamela Kringel, Administrator Kevin Mutchelknaus
- Washington High School Library: Librarian Kerri Smith, Administrator Kari Papke
- Watertown High School Library: Librarian Kris O’Brien, Administrator Brad Brandsrud
Enhanced Award recipients:
- Explorer Elementary School Library: Librarian Amy DeNomme, Administrator Douglas Eppard
- Freedom Elementary School Library: Librarian Tyler Muth, Administrator Tanja Pederson
- Huron High School Library: Librarian Rachel Kary, Administrators Mike Radke and Linda Pietz
