08 May Library Champion Award Ceremony
There was no better way to wrap up a week of festivities for National Library Week than with a ceremony honoring someone who has helped shape the future of the Santa Barbara Public Library. On April 13, the Santa Barbara Public Library Foundation proudly hosted the Library Champion Award Ceremony, celebrating the exceptional Jim Jackson.
With deep family roots in Santa Barbara and a deep commitment to public service, Jim truly displays his connection to our community. Though supporting our beloved Public Library, his efforts and leadership have emulated the Foundation’s mission and vision: “We Open Doors.”
On Sunday morning, the Library filled with public officials including City Administrator Kelly McAdoo, Council member Mike Jordan, Library staff, members of the Friends of the Library, Library Foundation Board members, and Library supporters, all ecstatic to celebrate Jim and his dedication. Guests settled down in their seats where they found a floral-like centerpiece made from repurposed book pages and a delicious brunch for the special occasion.
The crowd quieted as last year’s Library Champion, Anne Howard, announced Jim Jackson as this year’s well deserving champion. She shared kind words about Jim’s successes and accomplishments towards the library before welcoming him to accept his award. Most notably, she highlighted his contributions as a previous president and a two-time Campaign Co-Chair for the Michael Towbes Library Plaza and the Children’s Library. Without these campaigns, the library would not be able to serve the community and bring Santa Barbara together the way it does today.
With a warm smile and immense appreciation, Jim Jackson received his well deserved award. Although the award was for him, he dedicated his speech to thanking all the people who supported the Library alongside him, inspiring the room to continue doing their part in helping the Public Library.
To close the ceremony, The Foundation’s Executive Director, Lauren Trujillo, captured the main message of the event: “Jim has opened doors for countless others. Let’s honor him by keeping those doors open, strong, and wide for all.” Within the Library filled with countless Library supporters, everyone felt inspired to keep standing up for the Library’s mission.
Posted by SBPLF Intern Briana Ibarra-
Briana is a fourth-year student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, majoring in Communication with a minor in Professional Writing on the Civic Engagement track. She hopes to apply her communication and writing skills to a career in marketing or public relations after graduation.
