Paula Watkins has been recognized with the 2011 Lucy Hampton Bostick Award from the Friends of the Richland County Public Library. The award, which recognizes her efforts to support literacy and reading throughout the Midlands and South Carolina, was presented at the Friends' Annual Meeting in September.
Paula Watkins has served as director of the South Carolina Book Festival and the assistant director of The Humanities Council SC for seven years. She joined the council in 2001 and worked on many aspects of the book festival, as well several special programs and exhibits. Under her leadership, the festival has grown substantially and now attracts more than 6,000 people each year. The 2011 event featured more than 130 presenters, more than 100 exhibitors selling books and related items, book signings and much more.
"To me nothing provides more lasting value nor increases the quality of life in a community or state than the promotion of books and libraries," said Randy Akers, a former recipient of the award, in his nomination letter. "Paula often works 90 hour weeks preparing this massive event, and writers and participants alike consistently praise her for her planning and organization."
The Friends' Lucy Hampton Bostick Award was established in 1978 to honor the memory of Ms. Bostick, the Richland County Public Library's director from 1928-1968. Bostick is credited with fostering interest in Southern literature and history, improving cultural life in Columbia and promoting library appreciation throughout the state.
The Friends of RCPL is a nonprofit organization charged with raising support for and awareness of the library. Memberships start at only $25. For more information, call 803-988-0885 or visit www.myRCPL.com/friends.
