The South Dakota State Library, a division of the SD Department of Education, has awarded thirteen school libraries the 21st Century School Library Award for 2021. This annual award recognizes school libraries as Effective, Enhanced or Exemplary, based on performance in three areas: place, which refers to the learning environment (both physical and online), programming and the professional.
Applicants conduct a self-assessment and provide evidence of their ability to meet South Dakota's guidelines for school libraries. Award status is valid for a three-year period.
Exemplary Award recipients:
- Belle Fourche Middle School Library, Belle Fourche; Librarian Karen Schlekeway, Administrator Kevin Schmidt
- Brookings High School Library, Brookings; Librarian Jean Kirschenman, Administrator Dr. Paul vonFischer
- Flandreau Middle/High School Library, Flandreau; Librarian Lori Williams, Administrators Brian Relf, Nicole Herzog
- Lincoln High School Library, Sioux Falls; Librarian Mary Peters, Administrator Dr. Laura Raeder
- Patrick Henry Middle School Library, Sioux Falls; Librarian Wendy Nelson, Administrator Kim Sharping
- Roosevelt High School Library, Sioux Falls; Librarian Michelle Clayberg, Administrator Tim Hazlett
- Spearfish High School Library, Spearfish; Librarian Emily Benvenga, Administrator Steve Morford
- T.F. Riggs High School Library, Pierre; Librarian Pamela Kringel, Administrator Kevin Mutchelknaus
- Washington High School Library, Sioux Falls; Librarian Kerri Smith, Administrator Kari Papke
- Watertown High School Library, Watertown; Librarian Kris O'Brien, Administrator Brad Brandsrud
Enhanced Award recipients:
- Freedom Elementary School Library, Harrisburg; Librarian Tyler Muth, Administrator Tanja Peterson
- Explorer Elementary School Library, Harrisburg; Librarian Amy DeNomme, Administrator Doug Eppard
- Huron High School Library, Huron; Librarian Rachel Kary, Administrators Mike Radke, Linda Pietz
Find more information on the State Library's 21st Century School Library Award webpage.