NYT Librarian of the Year 2006 Gesille James

Gesille James

Supervising Librarian

The New York Public Library, Allerton Branch, Bronx, New York

Gesille was nominated by Brenda Adger, who wrote: “She believed in me, and gave me the strength to believe in myself.” Brenda is a single mom, and was struggling to get by when she met Gesille.  Gesille urged Brenda to take the free computer classes that the library was offering. After all, just because Brenda’s 8-year-old son was frustrated over being unable to teach his mom about computers didn’t mean that more experienced teachers couldn’t be more successful.  And when a big job opportunity came up for Brenda, Gesille inspired her to go for it –– and Brenda got the job.  Gesille learns about those who come to her branch, to encourage them to keep improving themselves. What a difference she makes!  Thank you, Gesille James.