By Jenna Jensen
Contributor
After months of collecting many nominations, the second annual Champions for Literacy Award has been granted to two Elk Valley locals. This year, Joanne Plesman and Natalie Fisher were recognized for their love of literacy and for making a huge and positive impact on literacy in their communities.
Sparwood Public Library Assistant / Children and Youth Services Coordinator Joanne Plesman was presented with her award during the evening of the Lego Challenge at the Sparwood Library.
"This award seeks to honor someone who displays a commitment to literacy, innovation and creativity which inspires or motivates others to learn and who is a strong community advocate for literacy,” said Meghan Morton, Community Literacy Coordinator of the Elk Valley Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy.
“Joanne perfectly embodies all of these things. Joanne is amazing. Anyone who knows her will agree that her kindness and eagerness to help everyone is very clear. Joanne runs several programs at the library. I have seen many times how she invests in young people and how she inspires them to love to learn and to want to pursue that learning. She truly is a personal hero of mine."
Plesman graciously accepted the award and commented on her love of literacy.
"I love what I do, right from babies to adults, it's all about them coming into the library and using the programs we offer. It really warms my heart to see."
Fisher will be presented her award in the very near future.