Barbara McKillip’s foundation helps rural libraries reach kids. (Eugene Register-Guard, 5/7/2012)
Excerpt: McKillip, 60, is one of eight Lane County residents being honored this month as “Living Inspirations” — people age 60 or older who have enriched their communities with their active volunteerism. The awards are part of the Age Knows No Limits project, which is coordinated by a coalition of senior-oriented community groups. The honors are announced each May in conjunction with Older Americans Month.
McKillip said the award, for which she was nominated by a friend, is a touching reminder of how others have embraced her efforts.
“I don’t quite see myself as a ‘living inspiration,’ but I appreciate that my work is recognized,”
McKillip said. “Books have taught me a lot, and I am glad to share that passion with kids.” McKillip grew up in a rural community in the Midwest, and she recalls always having old, used and secondhand books to read — rarely new ones. Her early love for books ultimately led to a master’s degree in library science from the University of Oregon.
While working as a librarian and history instructor at Linn-Benton Community College in Albany, she conceived the idea for the Libri Foundation, drawn from talks with her parents as they dreamed about what they would do if they won big in the lottery.
No comments:
Post a Comment