The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Library was awarded the 2014 Library Institutional Excellence Award by the Association of Tribal Archives, Libraries and Museums. Included in the recognition were Tribal Planning Director Leanne Jenkins, library staff including Siri Hiltz, MLIS, Tribal partner JKT Development, Inc.(an enterprise of the Tribe’s Economic Development Authority), and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal community as a whole.

Established in 2007, the Guardians of Culture, Memory, and Lifeways International Awards Program identifies and recognizes organizations and individuals who serve as outstanding examples of how indigenous archives, libraries, and museums contribute to the vitality and cultural sovereignty of Native nations.

In making the award, ATALM commended the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe for bringing its library services into the 21st century, offering opportunities for digital access to treasured tribal collections from anywhere in the world and providing a state-of-the-art library serving an active and integral role in community activities. The creation of the tribally-owned and managed “House of Seven Generations” online archival resource website connects current generations with the tribe’s cultural roots and allowing a glimpse into the rich history of the Jamestown S’Klallam people. In 2012, the tribe renovated Heron Hall, a former community meeting space, into a dynamic center that serves the cultural and information needs of the tribal community, and shares the rich cultural history of the tribe with the world. The library provides materials to homebound elders, conducts reading/literacy programs with children and youth, enhances language-learning services and resources, and collaborates with other tribal programs to develop activities for the benefit of tribal citizens and the public.

The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Library first opened in 1988, and has always been open to the public. It is located on the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Campus in Blyn at 1070 Old Blyn Highway. Library hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Library Institutional Excellence Award recognizes an indigenous library that profoundly demonstrates outstanding service to its community. Nominees must have developed innovative and effective services and programs that can be replicated by other libraries; partnered successfully with other institutions to improve and enhance services; or demonstrated excellence in service that has impacted the community in a measurable way.

Kudos to Leanne and her team!!!!