Editor’s Note: Awards Energy!

By Sharon Verbeten

Five years ago, I penned an editor’s note that started: “I’m an awards show junkie.” I love all awards shows—the suspense . . . the pomp . . . the circumstance.

That’s still true, as I sit here on Grammys night, half-watching, half-writing this note.

And just last week—although I wasn’t there in person—I watched the Youth Media Awards livestream with great anticipation (darn, though, my predictions were wrong!).

For those of you who have attended in person, I know you have felt that rush—it happens most often when a book you love or an author you admire is announced as the winner. If you’ve been in the room, you have heard the squeals of joy or the gasps of surprise (at times) and witnessed the jumping, cheering, clapping, and sometimes the matching hats/T-shirts of those lucky enough to be on the awards selection committees.

The buzz is just contagious. And now for the last few years, thanks to technology, those of you who cannot attend can follow via live streaming. It’s not quite the same as being there, but it may be even better—as you watch with your colleagues at the library or in your jammies in the comfort of your couch!

I hope you, like me, can feel the energy—either in person or vicariously—of these amazing awards. I know many of you participate in mock Newbery and Caldecott voting in your schools and libraries; that’s another great way to get involved (and gauge interest from those who matter most—the kids!).

Now, on to my second favorite thing—the ALA Annual Conference in June, where it’s always a delight to see the lines snake around the aisles for author signings. And to see them all dressed up and beaming at the awards dinner.

This June, it’s just a short jaunt down the interstate to Chicago for me—so I’m eagerly looking forward to it. Maybe I’ll see you there? &