The Linda Shallcross Soukup Library Staff Awards celebrate exceptional contributions by library staff who advance the mission of the University Library through innovation, leadership, service, and community impact.

Established through the generosity of Rich and Linda Soukup, these annual awards are a meaningful investment in the people who make the University Library a dynamic and essential part of campus life.

The Awards are conferred each year at the Heart of the Library Awards and Recognition Ceremony in February.

Award criteria

Nominees may be recognized for any one of the following:

  • A significant one-time or sustained contribution to the Library or ISU
  • Demonstrated innovation, leadership, or service excellence
  • Positive impact on operations, workplace culture, the community, or the profession
  • Advancement of the Library’s strategic mission

Awards are based on accomplishments from the prior fiscal year (July–June), or sustained excellence over time.

Eligibility: Nominees must be appointed at least 75% FTE in the applicable award classification category and must not have received an award in the past two years.

Nominate a library employee

All members of the Iowa State University community can nominate a library employee for this award. This includes students, peers, supervisors, colleagues in other ISU colleges and departments, and self-nominations. 

Nominate an employee by submitting:

  • A completed online form
  • A detailed nomination letter / nominee statement (2 pages or less)
  • Letter(s) of support (one page or less)
    • Self-nominations and student-nominations require two letters of support

Number of awards

Each year, up to five awards may be presented, with recipients receiving $500–$1,000. Awardees can use award funds for professional development or accept as a cash award.

The number of awards is proportional to current staffing in the following employment classifications. 

  • Merit Staff (1 award)
  • P&S Non-Librarian Staff (1 award)
  • Librarian (P&S or Faculty) (2 awards)
  • Any classification (up to 1 award)

Award timeline

  • August – September: Nominations open
  • September – October: Committee review
  • November – December: Admin Cabinet reviews and final decisions
  • January: Award recipients notified
  • February: Awards conferred at Heart of the Library Ceremony

Honoring the donors

These awards are made possible by the Linda Shallcross Soukup Library Fund, created by Rich and Linda Soukup. Their generous gift honors Rich and Linda’s love for the Iowa State University Library and celebrates the impact of the University Library’s staff.

Award recipients will send a thank-you letter to the donors and may meet virtually or in person to share their achievements

Questions?

Contact the Awards and Recognition Committee at libawards@iastate.edu.