The media specialist at Jones Middle School in Buford, Maile Steimer, has been named Gwinnett County Public Schools’ 2022 Library Media Specialist of the Year.

“The annual award honors a K-12 library media specialist whose program is exemplary in collaborative partnerships, development of research skills, incorporation of technology, and the promotion of reading,” a news release announcing the award states. 

“Ms. Steimer promotes reading through displays, digital book trailers and reading challenges,” the release continues. “Her philosophy is ‘Libraries are for Everyone’ and she adds books to the school’s collection that reflect her students, while also providing them with opportunities to read different viewpoints and understand the feelings of others.”

“From the inviting hub of the Jones Media Center, Ms. Steimer extends her influence throughout the school as a reading champion, instructional partner, and school leader,” said Susan Harris, Jones Middle School assistant principal.

Under Steimer’s leadership, Jones Middle School was recognized as the Georgia Library Media Association’s Exceptional Media Program in 2017. As GCPS’ honoree, Steimer will compete for the Metro Area Library Media Specialist of the Year honor sponsored by the Georgia Library Media Association.

Theresa Buckley, media clerk at Jones Middle School, was also honored as GCPS Media Clerk of the Year.

FEATURED PHOTO: Pictured from left to right are Mary Barbee, director of Media Services and Technology Training for Gwinnett County Public Schools; Maile Steimer, media specialist at Jones Middle School and the school system’s 2022 Library Media Specialist of the Year; and Lin Wilkins Thornton, principal at Jones Middle School. Photo courtesy of GCPS.