Congratulations to Reformista Ghada Kanafani Elturk on receiving the 2013 EMIERT Distinguished Librarian Award. Ghada is receiving this award for her outstanding achievement and leadership in serving the community by significant collection building and outreach services, and developing creative multicultural materials and programs.

Various nominations said that she has distinguished herself in service to the community.  Ghada respects the pluralism of this country and exhibits a fluidity and adaptability, ever listening to a new arrival’s story and seeking ways to assist, no matter where the person is from.  She has been a pioneer in her efforts to serve multicultural/multiethnic communities at Boulder Public Library and beyond.

In addition, Ghada is appreciated by peoples of all cultures in Boulder as they realize what she has done to get them to the library by offering access to all types of materials in their particular cultural, multicultural programs, and other library services.

Ghada is a bridge-builder in a diverse society. She shares her knowledge in a manner that is typically Ghada – kind, generous, respectful, and genuine.
Ghada will receive her award at the Annual Meeting of the American Library Association in June, 2013 in Chicago.