Laurie McGee, Head of Children’s & Family Outreach Services at the Oshkosh Public Library, retired at the end of 2009. In a fitting tribute, Magee will be recognized as the 2010 recipient of the Celebrate Literacy Award, given annually by the Wisconsin State Reading Association, to individuals and organizations that display exemplary commitment to literacy.
Magee, who has been with Oshkosh Public Library for 21 years, is well-known throughout the Oshkosh area as a collaborator who builds partnerships that make the community a better place. “Laurie combines a passion for the life-changing power of literacy with a talent for bringing community partners and resources together to achieve a common goal,” says Jeff Gilderson-Duwe, Oshkosh Public Library Director. “Where others have been blocked by obstacles, Laurie has been relentless in seeking solutions.”
A social worker in the early years of her career, Magee went on to earn a master’s degree in library science and took a position at the Portage County Library in 1981. She joined the Oshkosh Public Library in 1988 and wasted no time in establishing new programs and services. Most notable among them:
1989 - Started Home Delivery program, using volunteers to bring specially selected materials to more than 200 homebound customers annually
1989 – Co-founded the Winnebago County Literacy Council; board member for 12 years
1995 – Started Roving Reader program, using trained volunteers to provide monthly storytime programs to hundreds of preschool children at area child care centers.
1996 – Started Book Fest, which annually brings working book authors and illustrators to area schools to talk to children about the process of creating a book.
2008 – Coordinated creation of FamilySpace, a family resource center at the Oshkosh Public Library. FamilySpace provides parenting information and programs, as well as learning environments and spaces where families can spend time together.
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