Pearl Award

Presented by the Public Library Division to a deserving person employed in any capacity in an Oregon public library who has displayed exceptional effort and excellence. The annual award represents those who are like the pearl in an oyster -- one who agitates, makes change over time, and is highly valued.

In 2017, the PLD Executive Board surveyed membership to come up with a new name for this award which was formerly known as the Olé Award. That name reflected recipients' efforts to "take the bull by the horns" and get the job done.

• Dea Nowell (2023)
• Ericka Brunson-Rochette (2022)  Acceptance Video / Transcript of Acceptance Video
• Lanel Jackson (2021)
• Victoria Campbell (2020)
• Greg Williams (2019)
• Thalia Truesdell (2018)
• Korie Buerkle (2017, first recipient of the Pearl Award)
• Kate Ayres and Brendan Lax (2016)
• Kate Lasky (2015)
• Anna Bruce (2014)
• Ken Hobson (2013)
• Esther Moberg (2012)
• Jennifer Keirans (2011)
• Mary Beth Hustoles (2010)
• Marian Thomas (2009)
• Leah Griffith (2008)
• Teresa Landers (2007)
• Robin Beerbower (2006)
• Mike Smith (2005)
• Sheryl Eldridge (2004)
• Aletha Bonebrake (2003)
• Carolyn Forde (2002)
• Betty Lee (2001)
• Michael Gaston (1999)
• Eva Calcagno (1998)
• Molly Madigan and Patrick Duke (1997)
• Gail Warner (1996)
• McMinnville Public Library Staff (1995)
• Mark Yerburgh (1994)

Pearl Award Procedures as listed in the OLA Handbook.