The Saline County Library recently hosted its inaugural Collaboration Celebration, a masquerade recognizing outstanding contributions from library staff, patrons, and community partners. The formal event was held in celebration of collaboration and community spirit, featuring catered refreshments, a DIY mask-making station, trivia games, and other festive activities. The evening spotlighted individuals and organizations who exemplify the library’s mission and support the Saline County community.
Library Staff Awards
Library staff were honored through nominations submitted by both the public and coworkers. The following team members were recognized as “Library Stars,” employees who showed exemplary public service and work performance at the library.
Patron nominated Library Stars:
• Madison Oden, Public Services Manager
• Amanda Ball, Youth Services Librarian
• The entire East End Branch Team
Coworker nominated awards were given to:
• Roxann Heath, Financial Services Coordinator
• Rachel Wallace, Assistant Manager, Bryant Branch
• E’Yanne Whitaker, Assistant Manager, East End Branch
Patron Awards
The library gave awards to members of the community, expressing thanks to patrons for their support. The East End branch “Champion” was Jennifer Bryan. In the statement from staff, the East End branch described Jennifer: “She has the biggest heart and has told everyone in East End how much she loves the library, and will probably tell you, too, as soon as she is able.”
The Bryant branch Champion was Amanda Noble. “Amanda Noble is involved in programs and events at all 3 library locations. She brings a bright light and joy with her whenever she comes in.”
The Public Relations Champion was Amy Brazell. “She brings fun and creativity to any party… Anytime a poll is posted on our social media pages, she is one of the first to cast her vote.”
Adult Services Champion was Serena Krone. “Serena is the kind of patron every library dreams of—an avid reader, a creative maker, and a true community builder.”
Public Services Champion was Alan Brown. “He truly is such a joy to see when he comes in, and he livens up the library.”
Jen Hughes was awarded Gann Museum Partner of the Year. “When she saw that [the Gann Museum’s] WWII Wall of Honor display was falling down, she offered to help me fix it. Jen went all the way back to [Little Rock] and came back with supplies.”
Business and Organizational Awards
Several local businesses and community organizations were recognized for their generous support:
• Papa John’s Pizza & Harps Grocery – Saline County Library Partner of the Year
• Bryant Youth Association – Promoter of the Year
• Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers – Supporter of the Year
• Rotary Club of Bryant, Arkansas – Donor of the Year
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Attendees also had the chance to win awards in three categories: Best Costume, Best Mask, and Best Duo Costume.
In a surprise finale, the library unveiled its new mascots, Allen and Alaina, two cheerful axolotls who will help promote library services and programs in the coming year.
The Saline County Library would like to thank the restaurants and local businesses who graciously provided catering for this event, including: Texas Roadhouse, The Purple Cow, Vibrant Occasions Catering, Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers, Bryant Family Pharmacy, and Whole Hog Café.
The library would also like to thank the Bryant Chamber of Commerce, the City of Bryant Parks Department, and Salt Creek Outreach for helping facilitate the event.
The Saline County Library has been serving the residents of Saline County since 1931 and has three locations: Benton, Bryant, and East End. Each location provides wireless access computing as well as desktop computers for guest use and several other non-traditional items such as video games, cake pans, small tools, and more. The Saline County Library also provides a variety of events and community outreach programs. For a full list of services and upcoming events, visit www.salinecountylibrary.org or call 501-778-4766. For more information about our programs at the library, including our hours for each location, visit www.SalineCountyLibrary.org.
See the main events page for all of the Saline County events listings: www.mysaline.com/events
