GULF SHORES, AL — The Alabama Library Association indicates that Alabama Standards Achievement Awards recognize superior planning and levels of excellence attained by exceptional public libraries in the state.

The Gold Level Standards Award is the highest level of achievement attainable, and is reserved for those libraries that meet and surpass core specifications set by the agency. These benchmarks are the guiding principles for all statewide public libraries and encompass facility, administration, planning, budgetary, collection, public service and technology requirements.

On April 9, the Thomas B. Norton Public Library joined public libraries from Fairhope, Foley, Orange Beach, and Vestavia Hills in being honored with the presentation of Gold Level Standards Awards, at this year’s annual convention, at The Grand Hotel in Point Clear. Another Baldwin County library, Bay Minette, rounded out the ceremony by being acknowledged at the Silver Level.

“We are thrilled to receive this award,” said Wendy Congiardo, Thomas B. Norton’s Managing Librarian and ALLA Convention Chair. “To be recognized by the association is a tribute to the enthusiasm and hard work of everyone in our administration and on our staff, as well as the collaborative effort and support put forth by our entire city.”

This year’s award will mark the fifth time the Thomas B. Norton Public Library has been recognized by the library association.

“We look forward to continuing the rich legacy of our library and are proud to be in the company of the other outstanding libraries being honored.”

The Thomas B. Norton Public Library is located at 221 W. 19th Avenue in Gulf Shores and is open six days a week.