Monday, November 05, 2012

2012 Storylines Betty Gilderdale Award Winner Announced

Hamilton children’s literature specialist and Southwell School librarian Gerri Judkins (right) is the winner of the 2012 Storylines Betty Gilderdale Award for a distinguished contribution to children’s literature in New Zealand. 

Her activities to promote books for children over twenty years have included a key role in organising the 2011 World Final of the Kids Lit Quiz held in Hamilton and coaching local teams for the popular annual quiz. 

“Gerri has been a tireless worker for children’s books as a librarian, teacher and judge for more than twenty years,” says Storylines Trust chairperson Dr Libby Limbrick.‘Her work for School Librarians’ Association (SLANZA) has been acknowledged by merit awards.
“Storylines is pleased to honour Gerri with this award as one of the ‘unsung heroes’ of New Zealand literature and literacy teaching.”  

The award, honouring the author and educator Betty Gilderdale, was instituted in 2000 to acknowledge long-standing service in the wide field of children’s books and literacy. Previous recipients have included author Katerina Te Heikoko Mataira, booksellers John and Ruth McIntyre, creative writing teacher Dr Glyn Strange and literary agent Ray Richards.
A presentation function is being held in Hamilton on 30 November. 

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