Senior Outreach Specialist Susan Parkins was recently announced as the winner of the 2021 John Philip Excellence in Outreach Award. The award, sponsored by the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services (ABOS) and Farber Specialty Vehicles, is given to an individual in recognition of their outstanding contributions and prominent leadership to ABOS.
Susan has worked at Laramie County Library System for thirty-two years, dedicating her career to providing outreach services via the bookmobile and home visits. Her tireless work has ensured that homebound and rural community members still receive the benefits and resources offered by the library. Thanks to Susan’s efforts, the library makes a larger impact throughout Laramie County and reaches those who need it most.
Susan’s passion for outreach has extended beyond the boundaries of Laramie County and made an impact nationally. Susan has served the ABOS organization since 2017 as a Board Member-at-Large, Vice President/President Elect, President, Past President, and Chair of several committees. During her time with the nationally-renowned organization, Susan has played a crucial role in expanding ABOS’ capacity to hold conferences, promoting the organization to state library associations, increasing membership, providing tech support for all conference presentation and attendees, and establishing opportunities for continuing education.
County Librarian Carey Hartmann shared, “We are so proud of what Susan has accomplished locally for Laramie County and nationally in her profession. In her first year working as the library’s Bookmobile Specialist, she increased circulation by 150%! Looking back, that was an indicator of what she would contribute. She continues to grow services, always with her patrons in mind. ABOS was the right means for her to learn, network and mentor, ensuring excellence in library outreach services for the entire nation.”
Susan’s impact on ABOS and the outreach community at large cannot be understated. Her work to expand outreach services and mentor those who provide them has influenced both the local community and fellow library employees on a national scale. Laramie County Library System congratulates Susan on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her dedication to bookmobile and outreach services at large.
The John Philip Excellence in Outreach Award will be presented at the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 during the Virtual ABOS Conference.
To learn more and read ABOS’ press release announcing the award, please click here.