Emma Dressler has won a provincial award for her work as Director of the Fernie Heritage Library.
On May 11, at the annual British Columbia Library Association meeting, Emma Dressler was presented with the BC Library Director’s Award of Excellence for 2012. The provincial committee celebrates one librarian a year with this award. The presenter spoke enthusiastically about Fernie’s library, particularly the way it is meeting contemporary challenges by offering a wide array of innovative programs and services.
Emma Dressler was delighted to be chosen from the many library directors across the province. “This award is a reflection of the work of everyone at the library, the staff, volunteers and the board,” said Emma. “Everything we do is truly a team endeavour and I feel privileged to work with such an amazing group of people.”
Local writer and library board member, Angie Abdou, said she was not surprised. “I spend a lot of time in libraries across the country,” Angie explained, “and I know we have something special here in Fernie. Emma has made it her goal to create a library that is the living room of the community. Her vision and leadership have allowed her and her staff to create a space that is welcoming and energetic. It’s my favourite building in town.”
Min Merrit, Chair of the Fernie Library board, is also pleased that Emma has been recognized. “As a board we are fully aware of what an outstanding library director we have here at the Fernie Heritage library.” Said Min. “Emma is intelligent, professional and utterly committed to providing this community with excellent library services. We are so proud that she is being recognized province wide for all that she does to make libraries relevant in today’s society.”