Carol Finch, children and teen services coordinator for Phoenix Public Library, is a winner of the 2006 New York Times Librarian Awards. Finch is among 25 librarians nationwide who are being recognized for outstanding public service and the positive impact they had on their nominators.

The Times, which received more than 1,300 nominations from 45 states, will honor the winners Dec. 13 at a ceremony and reception in New York. Each will receive $2,500 and a commemorative plaque.

Finch, who has been with Phoenix Public Library 18 years, was nominated by Jean Kilker, a member of the Library’s advisory board and a school librarian who works closely with her on services to teens.

“The New York Times award is a testament to the great work that Carol accomplishes every day, and we're very excited that her exemplary performance and outstanding community service are being recognized,” City Librarian Toni Garvey said.

“We are very happy for this opportunity to celebrate librarians from across the country, whose enormous contributions sometimes go unrecognized,” said Alyse Myers, senior vice president, chief marketing officer, The New York Times Media Group. “All librarians fill a vital role in our society – they are the people who bring together communities in the pursuit of knowledge. In doing so, they remind us that education and civic engagement are critical components of a thriving democracy.”