Outstanding Librarian in Support of Literacy 2010 - Anne Cain Contra Costa County Library

OUTSTANDING LIBRARIAN
IN SUPPORT OF LITERACY AWARD
2010 Award Winner: Anne Cain
Contra Costa County Library

Anne Cain understands the strong correlation between reading skills and everyday success. As such, under her leadership the Project Second Chance (PSC) has become an integral part of the Contra Costa County Library's strategic plan to support reading and literacy. Anne keenly understands that the cause of literacy needs to be a consistent presence in the community, and she has fought successfully to make all PSC staff county positions rather than temporary contract staff. Further, in an era of terrible cut-backs, she has never hinted that cut-backs might be required in literacy. Anne values PSC and uses our program as a model for service delivery throughout the library.

But perhaps even more important than all this is that Anne "gets it." She understands the importance of volunteers. She talks to students like the real people they are and listens to them, is touched by their courage, and celebrates their successes. One PSC student, Kristi C., stated"Anne Cain has been a huge supporter of PSC. She believes everyone should have the opportunity to learn how to read, and she knows that reading can change your life. I know from personal experience that Anne Cain is a literacy hero."

Anne has always said that knowing PSC students has made her a better person. Well, Anne has made PSC a better program. Retiring in November, 2010, Anne's and her fan club - all of the staff, tutors, and students of PSC - want her to know that her legacy of support for literacy will live on. And we hope that she will receive this well-deserved recognition as she truly is an "Outstanding Librarian in Support of Literacy."

This award, established in 2003 (Literacy Interest Group), recognizes and honors a librarian who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to support literacy.

Past Winners
2009: Derek Wolfgram, Santa Clara County Library
2008: Jean Hofacket, Alameda County Library
2007: Carol Starr, Marin County Free Library
2006: John M. Adams, Orange County Public Library
2005: Sofia Bellos, Oxnard Public Library
2004: Leslie McGinnis Rodd, Oakland Public Library
2003: Chuck Aston, Redwood City Public Library