ASCLA Exceptional Service Award recipient named

Contact: Eileen Hardy


312-280-4398


ehardy@ala.org

For Immediate Release


April 2002

ASCLA Exceptional Service Award recipient named

Michael Gunde, bureau chief, Florida Department of Education, Division of Blind Services, Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services, is the 2002 recipient of the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) Exceptional Service Award.

The ASCLA Exceptional Service Award is a citation presented by ASCLA to recognize exceptional service to patients; the homebound; medical, nursing and other professional staff in hospitals; and inmates, as well as recognize professional leadership, effective interpretation of programs, pioneering activity and significant research.

"Mike has the staff's complete admiration and respect for his advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities, professionalism and leadership, intelligence and energy, and his very unique combination of innovation and practicality," stated Jan Walsh, ASCLA award committee chair. "He is known throughout Florida, and in library circles nationally, for his professional service, advocacy and leadership in promoting compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act."

The award will be presented June 16, 2002, from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m., at the ASCLA President's Program and Award Ceremony during the ALA Annual Conference in Atlanta.