2018 ABOS John Philip Excellence in Outreach Award

Susy Gonzalez-Pueschner

The ABOS John Philip Excellence in Outreach Award is given to recognize outstanding contributions and prominent leadership by an individual in Bookmobile and Outreach Services. John Philip, known to all as “Mr. Bookmobile,” spent his long and honorable career as an advocate of Bookmobile and Outreach Services. Sadly, John Philip passed away on February 1, 2016, but remains known as the “Father;” of the National Bookmobile Conference which started in 1986 and has now evolved into the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services. Through his strong leadership and high profile advocacy, Bookmobiles have been recognized as a viable library outreach service. This award honors his dedication and tireless work and serves as a pinnacle for all Bookmobile and Outreach staff to aspire to reach.

This year’s ABOS John Philip Excellence in Outreach award winner is no stranger to driving bookmobiles, hauling book carts and delivering to homebound customers.  She has worked in the public library since 1981 and has worked in outreach since 1989.  She is also fluent in Spanish and works at a local school as a tutor and teacher’s assistant for students with learning disabilities.

Susy Gonzalez Pueschner of the King County Library System has impacted the lives of many.  She has singlehandedly created a “Fun for all Minds” iPad program for elderly patrons dealing with varying degrees of dementia and teaches computer classes in Spanish.

Susy has also been instrumental in developing King County Library System’s Idea X program, helping to develop robotics, 3-D printing and makerspaces.

Susy truly demonstrates the hard-working, imaginative and inventive nature of the entire Bookmobile and Outreach field and uniquely embodies the spirit of this great distinction.