INFOhio Community

Janet Ingraham Dwyer, State Library Youth Services Consultant, was recently honored with the 2023 Ohio Educational Library Media Association (OEMLA) Presidential Award for her service to school libraries. In her remarks, OELMA Board President Gayle Schmuhl stated,

“Janet connects, champions, and amplifies the work of children’s and teen services specialists in public and school libraries. She provides learning opportunities and tools for summer library programs, coordinates the Choose to Read Ohio initiative, and supports Ohio Ready to Read, a statewide resource network promoting early literacy activities in public libraries.  Janet has also collaborated with OELMA, and with fellow OELMA members, on numerous initiatives including Reading ‘Round the Clock, the Buckeye Children’s & Teen Book Awards, and Floyd’s Pick Book Award. I have personally come to know her through her work as the State Library of Ohio liaison to the OELMA Board of Directors. “

“I am grateful for the extent to which I’ve been able to participate, learn, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging among school librarians,” expressed Janet while accepting the award. “My job as youth services consultant at the State Library is wide-ranging, but at the core, I’m just here to amplify your [school librarians] awesomeness. It’s a privilege to be included and an honor to be recognized like this. But all I’ve done is learn and lend a hand to the good work you do.”

OELMA is an organization for teacher-librarians within the state of Ohio dedicated to professional development, student literacy and achievement, and technological excellence in Ohio’s schools. OELMA supports our members’ efforts to implement guidelines and standards through educational programs, publications, and our network of state affiliate organizations. Janet has collaborated with OELMA and its members since the onset of her State Library tenure in 2009. 

“Janet’s dedication to providing the highest quality library service to all library staff serving youth has made her a national leader in the field of children’s and teen librarianship. The services and programs we support in Ohio are only as strong as they are because of her leadership and ingenuity,” acknowledged State Librarian Wendy Knapp.  “It’s an honor to work alongside Janet every day, and I couldn’t be more proud of her being honored with the 2023 OELMA Presidential Award.”

Photo: L to R: Gayle Schmuhl, OELMA Board President and Janet Ingraham Dwyer holding 2023 OLEMA Presidential Award