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CORVALLIS - Karyle S. Butcher, university librarian at Oregon State University, has been named Oregon Librarian of the Year by the Oregon Library Association. The association bestows the honor to a member librarian who has shown vision, excellence in library services and a commitment to sharing over the past two years.

"We're looking for somebody who has made a contribution to other libraries and offered service beyond their local library," said Shirley George, chair of the Honors, Awards and Scholarship committee and director of the Beaverton City Library.

George said Butcher was known for her support for intellectual freedom issues and successful work to obtain state grants for children's books for libraries throughout the state. Butcher was referred to as an unsung hero "who has more of a focus of doing for libraries rather than seeking attention for herself," George said.

Butcher also was cited for her willingness to share resources and expertise, including the Government Information Sharing Project which makes government information easier for the public to find and use.

"I am inordinately pleased," Butcher said of the award. "I am also very aware that this honor is not just about me but about everyone at the Oregon State Libraries who work to improve libraries and library service to the people of Oregon."

"This is a great and well-deserved honor," said Paul Risser, president of Oregon State University. "Karyle understands the libraries of today and anticipates what they will be in the future. She manages these libraries with an exceptional ability to work with the many people who use and depend on them."

Butcher has helped lead a two-year, $40 million reconstruction project of The Valley Library at OSU.

Past winners of the association award have included Andy Swanson, Klamath County Libraries; Jim Scheppke, state librarian; and Sara Charleton, Tillamook Public Library.