2021 Children's Literature Lecture

The Children's Literature Lecture Award honors an individual of distinction in the field of children's literature. The 2021 award-winner was Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop. Dr. Bishop, Professor Emerita at The Ohio State University, has served on numerous noteworthy committees for ALA and other organizations. Her research, writing and teaching have informed and expanded conversations about representation of African Americans in children's literature and provided a critical framework for research and pedagogy.



Due to unforeseen circumstances, Dr. Bishop did not deliver a lecture in 2021. In lieu of a lecture, ALSC was delighted to host a celebration in Dr. Bishop's honor. This celebration included a live, moderated panel discussing Dr. Bishop's impact, featuring Dr. Violet J. Harris (University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign), Dr. Dianne Johnson-Feelings (University of South Carolina), Alexandra Kennedy (The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art) and moderator Dr. Jonda C. McNair (The Ohio State University); pre-recorded remarks from creators, thought leaders, and Dr. Bishop herself; and resources for attendees.

A recording of the celebration and accompanying resources is available exclusively to ALSC members, as a benefit of their membership. Members can access that recording via this link.

Members of the 2021 ALSC Children’s Literature Lecture Award Selection Committee are: Chair Jennifer M. Duffy, King County Library System, Kirkland, Wash.; Christine A. Jenkins, University of Illinois, ISchool, Champaign, Illinois; Nancy J. Johnson, Western Washington University, Bellingham, Wash.; Ana-Elba Pavon, Oakland (Calif.) Public Library, Elmhurst Branch; Karen M. Rowell, Fay B. Kaigler Children's Book Festival, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Miss.