Glen Innes Library staff member Alex McLaren was recoginised for her academic excellence this year, receiving an award from the Library professional association, Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
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She received the 2019 ALIA Student award 'as the most outstanding graduating student in the Diploma of Library and Information Services at TAFE Digital'.
The libary is developing a strong track record for the academic acheivements of its staff.
"I received my award in January this year. It was an unexpected surprise, however it validated the time and effort I spent completing the Diploma," Alex said.
For seven years Alex has been a staff member at the library and she said during that time she has learned a great deal about the vital role public libraries play in regional communities.
Alex completed her Diploma of Library and Information Services with TAFE NSW Digital in August 2019, and works alongside two fellow library staff members who are completing study in Library and Information Services course.
They are Kate Cooper who is completing a Bachelor of Information Studies with Charles Stuart University and Charmaine Heath who is completing a Diploma of Library and Information Services with TAFE NSW Digital.
The library staff who choose to complete further studies in relevant courses are supported through the councils Study and Incentives Policy, where such provisions allow for reimbursement to staff of one half of relevant course and compulsory expenses fees.
"I love that we are able to have a positive impact on the Glen Innes community through programs such as children's storytime, school holiday activities, our Wraps With Love Knitting Group and Friends of the Library movie nights, just to name a few," she said.
"The library not only provides the community with vast access to information, is is also a place where people are able to meet, relax, and learn."
