Chelsea Public Library earns Alabama achievement award

The Chelsea Public Library was one of 14 libraries across the state to be recognized for the achievement of library standards. Librarian Dana Polk attended the Alabama Library Association Convention in Point Clear on April 4 to accept the Bronze Level of Achievement. 

The Alabama Public Library Standards of Achievement Awards recognize superior planning and levels of excellence by public libraries in Alabama with gold, silver and bronze levels. 

Public libraries that achieve these standards serve as benchmarks of excellence for other libraries in the state. 

Polk said this was the first time she had applied for this recognition, which has an extensive checklist to complete. 

“It covered everything from the size of the building to our collection, staff, budget, programs and more,” she said. “If the mayor and the council had not supported the library the way it does, we never would have qualified. It is an honor to be one of the two libraries in the county and 14 in the state to be recognized for our hard work.” 

There were six bronze, two silver and six gold awards presented. Pelham Public Library received the Gold Level of Achievement.