The Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library in Brundidge has been recognized with the Achievement of Library Standards at the Bronze Level. The award was presented by the Public Library Division of the Alabama Library Association.

The Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library is one of four Alabama libraries to receive the award this year.

The Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library Board and the City of Brundidge dedicated the award to retired library director Jean Carroll.

Theresa Trawick, head librarian, said the Standards of Achievement Award is attained by exceptional public libraries in recognition of superior planning and levels of excellence.

“The award signifies the hard work of community members for many years, since the founding of the library in 1959,” Trawick said. “The award is especially in honor of Jean Carroll who retired as library director in 2015.”

Trawick said the honor award is also the result of the dedication and support of the City of Brundidge and library board members, Sara Bowden, chair, Ann Andrews and Willa White and former board members, staff and patrons.

Carroll retired as librarian at Pike County High School in 1991 and almost immediately found her way back to the library.

Bowden said Carroll enjoys reading and loves books.

“Jean enjoys being around people who love books as much as she does,” Bowden said. “There was no place Jean would rather be than in the library. As director of our public library, she did so much to encourage others to read and to promote the library. Jean was at the library for more than a decade and we miss her terribly. But she has left her mark on the Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library and the library is a better place because she was here.”

Britt Thomas, Brundidge city manager, said Carroll has forgotten more about being a librarian than most librarians will ever know.

“Mrs. Carroll came to the library to fill in for six weeks and she stayed for 13 years,” he said. “Jean Carroll was a tremendous asset to the library and to the city. She is greatly missed.”

Mayor Jimmy Ramage said Carroll was dedicated to the Tupper Lightfoot Memorial Library, its patrons and the Brundidge community.

“Jean Carol is certainly deserving of sharing in the Alabama Public Library Standards of Achievement Award,” Ramage said. “She laid a strong foundation on which our library will continue to grow for many years.”