Michael L. Printz and the Story of the Michael L. Printz Award (Great Achiever Awards)

Michael Printz was not a nationally recognized celebrity. He wasn't a sports hero, a TV star, or an inventor. He was a librarian. And while no one ever became famous for being a librarian, Michael Printz was as close as one could get. For during his lifetime, he was a champion of young adults. His personal integrity, his love of books, and his passionate belief in his ability to change young people's lives for the better made him an exceptional person. All who knew him mourned his untimely death in 1996. But he is forever remembered in the Library Services Association that bears his name. Here is the long overdue story of the outstanding librarian from Topeka, Kansas, who was, indeed, a great achiever.