CHICAGO - The American Library Association (ALA) is pleased to announce Elizabeth Aspen Walker as the 2007 recipient of the Tony B. Leisner Scholarship.
The $3,000 scholarship, named for Tony B. Leisner, an active ALA member and former member of the ALA Council, is awarded to a library support staff member pursuing a master’s degree in library and information studies. The scholarship was established with funds donated by Leisner.
Walker’s greatest joy as a child growing up in rural Colorado was going down the mountain to visit the Douglas (CO) County Library. Today, she works in that same library, as Community Relations Specialist and is an active community volunteer in Douglas County. Her continuous involvement in libraries all worked to solidify her decision to pursue a career in librarianship, along with her inclination to help others, her zeal for research, inquiry and learning.
Walker desires to be a public librarian. She plans to bring to the field her skills in community relations, advocacy, fundraising, outreach and programming, while sharing her enthusiasm for knowledge, education and libraries.
Walker is committed to becoming a helpful and forward-thinking librarian, and a thoughtful administrator. “I look forward to a long career in libraries, composed of public service, and the promotion of life-long learning, intellectual freedom, and community-building”, said Walker.
Walker will be attending Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan.