What is it? Why should you nominate yourself or an OELMA colleague?

The Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month recognizes one school librarian a month who designs, develops, and implements a collaborative lesson plan and/or programming that empowers student learning. This award spotlights the importance of both the school library community and librarian and the pivotal role each plays in transforming learning throughout students’ K-12 education.

Consider nominating yourself or another OELMA library media specialist to be considered for the Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the month!  You can nominate yourself or a colleague anytime.  One recipient is selected by the 15th of each month (except June, July, August).  Recipients receive a free set of books published by Rosen. The Rosen award nomination form can be accessed under the Professional Recognition tab. Contact Susan Yutzey (oelma.awards@gmail.com) with any questions. 

OELMA has partnered with Rosen Publishing for this award since 2019 when Leslie Haynum, school library media specialist at Kimpton Middle School, received the award for a collaboration with the Stowe-Munroe Falls Public Library.  From April 2019 until June 2026, OELMA has honored forty school librarians with the Rosen.

The Awards Committee sponsored a Rosen Panel at the 2024 Annual Conference that featured Melissa Wolf (2022) and Angie Jameson (2020) who shared their Rosen projects and discussed the benefits, both personally and professionally, of being named a Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month.  In 2025, Kelly Silwani, Sheree Crandall, and Pam VanArsdale shared their insights and projects. This year, the Rosen Panel includes Judy Gawelek, Beth Van Kan, and Rebecca Lambert.

At this year’s conference, we celebrate our 50th Anniversary and our Rosen recipients for 2025/26 - Karen Reiber, Judy Gawelek, Beth Van Kan, and Rebecca Lambert on Thursday, November 12, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

We are pleased to partner with Rosen because since its establishment in 1950, Rosen has offered engaging print and digital books on a wide range of topics that are aligned with the curriculum.  Rosen is also known for its databases and interactive e-books.