Shae Smith recently won an award from the Oxford Public Library that no other employee’s ever won in the institution’s 83-year history.
Smith, head of youth services, was named the library’s Public Servant of the Year. This is the first year the award’s been offered.
‘It was something I decided to do based on the fact the I have a wonderful team that I work with at the library,? said OPL Director Bryan Cloutier. ‘I felt they deserved recognition for the hard work they contribute to the library and community.?
Smith received a framed certificate of appreciation and a small tile from Detroit’s Pewabic Pottery–both personally funded by Cloutier.
The award, according to Cloutier, will be given annually to a library staff member who ‘demonstrates service before self, and exemplifies endless levels of dedication, professionalism and commitment to serving the residents of Oxford.?
For Smith, her day consists of doing preschool programs, working in collection and development, ordering books and helping out customers.
‘I like the variety and working with children,? Smith said. ‘It always seems like there are so many different things to do.?
While Smith considers the award an honor, she’s uncomfortable being in the limelight and is quick to point out that she has a ‘very good team? in the youth department: Sian Marshall, Judy Parker, Randi Saunders, Cristan Weir and Colette Wojciehowski.
‘We all work together very well,? Smith said. ‘I get a lot of input and help from them, and I feel like they contributed towards me winning this award.?
The director said of Smith: ‘Shae is highly respected among her colleagues and staff. She collaborates regularly with her department’s team of professionals, local educators, government and civic organizations to develop new services and submits grant applications to help supplement library operational expenses that allow the Youth Department to maintain successful programming. Shae truly exemplifes this award in every form of its definition.?
From 2007 to 2008, according to Cloutier, the number of youth programs offered at the library increased by 18 percent while the youth program attendance increased by 77 percent.