The Ann Geisel Award of Merit recognizes librarians, libraries, and other individuals and organizations that have contributed to the N. H. Library Association or the New Hampshire library community. Through their efforts as library professionals, providing library services or advocating for library issues, they have improved all New Hampshire libraries.

This award is named in the memory of Ann Geisel (1947-1999). Ann personified "Distinguished service to the New Hampshire library community." In addition to serving for many years as the Director of the Peterborough Town Library, she served the New Hampshire library community through her service as a member of the N.H. Library Association, Nubanusit Library Coop and the N.H. State Library Advisory Council including a term as its Chair. She was also active in regional and national library issues as a member of the Advisory Board of the Northeast Document Conservation Center, the American Library Association and the New England Library Association.

Individuals, institutions, and organizations may be considered for this award. Significant contributions to the New Hampshire library community includes, but is not limited to:

Recognizing NHLA members for significant achievements or overall career accomplishments;

Recognizing New Hampshire libraries for outstanding service to their community;

Recognizing individuals and/or organizations who have been extremely supportive of the New Hampshire Library Association or New Hampshire libraries; or

Recognizing library advocates at the local, state, or national level.

The award is presented at the NHLA annual business meeting. The award is granted on the vote of the Executive Committee based upon candidates recommended by the Awards Committee. Recommendations to the Executive Board will be made by unanimous vote of the Awards Committee.

Submit a letter of nomination and two letters of support to the Committee by the application deadline. Include in the letter of nomination a statement explaining why this individual or organization qualifies for this award. List specific activities and accomplishments. For individuals, also list memberships and offices held in professional organizations and any honors received. Submit all nominations to:

NHLA Awards Committee,
c/o Andrea Thorpe
Richards Free Library
58 North Main Street
Newport NH 03773

OR via NHSL Van Delivery to Newport