The New York Times Honors Austin Librarian
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
By: Patricia Fraga

Joanna Nigrelli, one of the Austin Public Library's Wired for Youth librarians, was honored with the 2003 New York Times Librarian Awards.

Margaret Henkels, Austin Public Library Foundation Executive Director and Joanna Nigrelli, Wired for Youth Librarian

A ceremony and reception was held Tuesday, December 16, at The New York Times offices in New York City. 27 librarians from across the country were honored at the ceremony with a plaque and a cash prize of $2,500.

The Times received nearly 2,000 nominations from 46 states in 2003. The selection committee chose those who represent the highest level of public service and contribution to their communities.

 "We are delighted to recognize librarians from around the country in 2003," said Alyse Myers, vice president, marketing services, The New York Times. "The terrific response this program has received from practically every state in the nation is evidence of the enormous impact librarians have on library patrons. Whether they're helping children discover the joys of reading or easing the transition of immigrants to this country, librarians are improving people's lives in meaningful ways. The Times is proud to support those efforts in libraries, large and small, all over the country."

Joanna was the only librarian from Texas selected. She was nominated by children at the Terrazas Branch and the Library Foundation's Executive Director, Margaret Henkels. Joanna works at the Terrazas and Windsor Park Branches

Congratulations, Joanna!!!