Joining the ranks of outstanding librarians who have been recognized by the California Library Association (CLA) for their service to California libraries is the 2013 CLA Member of the Year Patty Wong. Wong is a county librarian for the Yolo County Library, and she is also a lecturer at the San José State University School of Library and Information Science (SJSU SLIS).

“Patty Wong has brought true leadership and vision to California libraries,” said Helen Fisher, committee chair for the CLA Member of the Year Award. “She has developed strong partnerships and collaborations with her communities, and overseen multiple building projects and renovations. Her passion for library advocacy, diversity, and outreach to the underserved inspires future and practicing librarians statewide.”

Wong is active in shared governance and support of Yolo County, serving in a number of county and community leadership roles. She also currently serves on the CLA Legislative Committee. At the SJSU information school, she teaches graduate courses in grant writing and trendspotting.

“We are so proud of Patty. It is wonderful to see her recognized for her leadership as a practitioner and also for her dedication to our graduate students. In addition to this award from CLA, this spring, she received the 2012 Excellence in Online Teaching Award from the Web-based Information Science Education (WISE) consortium,” said Dr. Sandra Hirsh, SJSU SLIS director and professor.

According to the CLA website, Wong’s greatest strength “centers on personal and professional development of colleagues.” The website also mentions several of the Yolo County Library’s accomplishments within the past four years. For instance, the library has built two new branches, finished a remodeling project of it largest facility, opened a new satellite location, and launched a 211 landline and cell phone service for users in the Yolo County service area. “The library is cultivating a culture of inclusion and developed a strategic plan based on community-centered engagement.”

The CLA Member of the Year Award recognizes an individual member of the California Library Association for her or his outstanding contributions, leadership, and achievements in service to California libraries.

Wong will be honored at the CLA Awards Gala on Sunday, November 3, in Long Beach, CA. The event will be held during the California Library Association’s 115^th Annual Conference & Exhibition, scheduled for November 3-5, 2013.