The Dewey Medal was established in 1951, and it was presented annually until its discontinuation in 2019. The award recognized significant contributions in areas such as library leadership, library innovation, and the development of library services. The selection process involved nominations from ALA members, followed by a review by the ALA Awards Committee and final approval by the ALA Council.
The Dewey Medal has a rich history and has been awarded to many notable figures in the library field. Some of the prominent recipients include:
- 1952: Carleton B. Joeckel, for his contributions to the development of the library profession and library education.
- 1960: Harold Lancour, for his outstanding work in the field of library history and bibliography.
- 1965: Ralph R. Shaw, for his innovative use of technology in libraries and his leadership in the field of library automation.
- 1970: Lester Asheim, for his significant contributions to library literature, library education, and intellectual freedom.
- 2000: Patricia Glass Schuman, for her commitment to international librarianship and her advocacy for intellectual freedom.
- 2019 (final award): Barbara Stripling, for her groundbreaking work in public library services and her dedication to serving diverse communities.
The discontinuation of the Dewey Medal in 2019 was met with mixed reactions. Some ALA members expressed concerns that the award was no longer relevant in a rapidly changing library landscape, while others felt that it was important to recognize and celebrate significant achievements in librarianship.
While the Dewey Medal is no longer presented, it remains a significant chapter in the history of library awards and honors. The recipients of the Dewey Medal have made substantial contributions to the profession, leaving a lasting impact on libraries and the communities they serve.