Nominations Sought for 2016 Pannell Awards

The Women’s National Book Association (WNBA) has opened the nomination process for its 2016 WNBA Pannell Awards to be presented at the Children’s Book & Author Breakfast at BookExpo America in Chicago this May. Every year since 1983, two bookstores — one general store and one children’s specialty store — have been recognized by the WNBA for enhancing their communities by using exceptional creativity to foster a love of reading and books among their patrons. Nominations may be submitted by customers, sales reps, store personnel, or anyone who has been impressed with the work of a particular independent bookstore.

There are two ways to nominate a bookstore for the Pannell Award:

1. Complete the Online Nomination Form.

2. E-mail [email protected] and include the following:

• Name, e-mail address, and phone number of the person making the nomination, as well as their connection to the nominated bookstore
• A brief statement outlining the reasons for nominating the bookstore
• Contact information for the owner/manager of the nominated bookstore

Nominations must be received by February 19, 2016. All nominated bookstores will then be asked to submit a description of the store’s programs, events, activities, goals, and contributions to the local community. Photos, media coverage, letters from customers, and other supplementary material may be included in the submission. 

Each winning store will receive a $1,000 check and a framed signed original art piece from a children’s book illustrator.

The WNBA Pannell Award is co-sponsored by Penguin Young Readers Group.