Thursday, July 26, 2007

Public Library Consortium Updates Library Survey

The Wisconsin Public Library Consortium (WPLC) just released "The Wisconsin Library User and Non-User II: Outcomes of a Second Statewide Survey (2003 - 2007 comparisons)," conducted for the WPLC by Joshua Morrill, Ph.D., Morrill Solutions Research. Results indicate continuing strong support for public libraries. The WLA Foundation contributed $2,500 to WPLC to help fund the survey.

2007 Burr/Worzalla Award is Ann Bausum's "Freedom Riders"

Freedom Riders: John Lewis and Jim Zwerg on the Front Lines of the Civil Rights Movement, written by Ann Bausum of Beloit, is an engaging account of the turbulent and pivotal events of the 1960’s and the people who risked their lives to challenge segregation. The Children's Book Award Committee of the Youth Services Section also named Jim LaMarche the 2007 Notable Wisconsin Author/Illustrator for his contribution to the world of children’s literature. For the list of books selected for Outstanding Achievement, view the complete news release.

Michael Perry's "Truck: A Love Story" 2007 Banta Winner

New Auburn author Michael Perry uses wry, self-deprecating humor and rich metaphor to lovingly portray the people and places of his daily life. In Truck, Perry pays homage to small town America and to love found unexpectedly and all it brings. The Literary Awards Committee of Readers Section also chose three authors for their body of work, designated as Notable Wisconsin Authors: Jerold Apps, Russel B. Nye, and George Vukelich. The committee's complete news release includes the list of books selected for Outstanding Achievement.