Ogdensburg Public Library Reference Librarian Marc Boyer received the Northern New York Library Network’s 20th Award for Excellence in Library Service. Pictured are (L to R) OPL Librarian Bonnie Wright, OPL Trustee JoAnn Wells, Mr. Boyer, OPL Director Wayne Miller, and NNYLN Executive Director John Hammond.

OGDENSBURG - The winner of the 20th Annual Award for Excellence in Library Service is described as someone who "... always goes the ‘extra mile’ to help patrons find the information they need."

Ogdensburg Public Library Reference Librarian Marc Boyer received the award during the Northern New York Library Network’s 45th Annual Meeting and Mini-Conference held May 20, 2010 at the Mirror Lake Inn, Lake Placid.

Each year the Network asks library directors/supervisors, co-workers or board members for confidential letters of nomination of a fellow colleague or supervisor they feel should be recognized for his/her outstanding service to libraries.

"Marc is not someone who seeks out the limelight, so we feel we are going to ‘toot his own horn’ for him," a letter of support stated. "Marc is knowledgeable about the OPL and can answer most any question - reference or not. He is cheerful and usually does library service with a smile."

A letter of nomination said, "Marc Boyer has maintained a steady, well organized, welcoming presence to patrons in the community, was instrumental in beginning the modernization and transformation of our library space, and has served (twice, now) capably as interim director of Ogdensburg Public Library."

"Marc is an extremely knowledgeable person who works tirelessly for the betterment of our library. He is not only friendly and willing to help, but will go the extra mile to make sure you get exactly what you want or need. Marc is a true gentleman whose personality traits, demeanor and intellect make him an excellent choice for the award," another letter said.

"Marc has a personality that allows him to get along with everyone. He is a staple to the reading community and is loved by patrons and staff alike," a letter of support said. "One of Marc’s many duties is ordering new books for the library collection, a tough job in this economy. He is excited with each new shipment that comes in. By the time a new box arrives we are all anxious and waiting as well. Marc brings joy and interest to his everyday job. There is nothing he can’t do, from picking out paint colors for the work room with five women who all want different things, to walking through a snow storm to get the library open in case others can’t make it in. Marc is a leader in commitment and responsibility to the job."

Yet another letter stated, "For several years, Marc has overseen the delivery of books to our local nursing homes. This gives many older folks who can’t physically come to the library access to our materials. He also gets patrons in contact with the State for materials for the blind. He has a calming influence with the staff and in dealing with difficult patrons."

Over 75 people representing 36 institutions were on hand at the annual meeting to help congratulate Mr. Boyer on his award and accomplishments.