About the Award

WLA is pleased to announce the 4th Annual Bonnie Katz Award, named in honor of our Ossining Library colleague who passed away in March of 2021.

An avid library supporter and the 2013 WLA President, Bonnie was an esteemed film buff, a passionate baseball fan, a pet lover, and a photographer. Bonnie took great joy in forging personal connections with library patrons and colleagues alike. She had an outgoing, positive spirit, was easy to talk with, and always ready to take on any challenge.

If you would like to nominate someone who exemplifies the same commitment to libraries and our communities as Bonnie, please click here to fill out the WLA Bonnie Katz Award Application. Nominations should be submitted by May 28, 2026. The WLA Executive Board will select and announce the award recipient at our Annual Meeting in June.

2023 Winners of the Bonnie Katz Award

At our 2023 Annual Business Meeting, we announced three winners of the Bonnie Katz Award in its inaugural year.

Named in honor of our WLA and Ossining Library colleague and friend, Bonnie was a passionate supporter of libraries, lifelong learning, and library workers. Our three recipients also reflect that same dedication and commitment to our patrons and communities.

The 2023 Winners are:

1. Claudia Pastore
2. Frank Godino
3. Vicenta Mauri