The New Haven Free Public Library recently honored Yale University Librarian Alice Prochaska and the Yale University Library with its 2008 Noah Webster Award. The award was presented at the Public Library's Mardi Gras celebration at the New Haven Lawn Club on February 5.

The Noah Webster Award is given annually to "an organization/community-builder that feeds a passion for education and literacy in and beyond the formal classroom. By providing the tools to enhance, broaden, and deepen the community's knowledge and information, Noah Webster awardees help create environments that reflect a literate and engaged populace. The...award is given in appreciation from the New Haven Public Library to a collaborating partner who, by their commitment, enables the Library's literacy mission to be fulfilled."

In accepting the award on behalf of the Library's 600 employees, Prochaska highlighted the many ways in which the Yale Library and the Public Library are working together in the community, including the partnership that created the Consumer Health Information Network, a project offering free medical information to New Haven residents. She also noted the many ways in which Library staff and departments are collaborating with local school groups on exhibitions, creative writing programs, and planning for Noah Webster's 250th birthday in 2008.

Michael J. Morand, Vice President of New Haven and State Affairs, and President of the New Haven Free Public Library's Patrons Board, presided at the event alongside James C. Welbourne, New Haven's City Librarian.

Read more: New Haven Independent, 'Library Parties On'.

Contact: Geoffrey Little

© 2005 Yale University Library
Page Last Updated: 11/24/2009