Ginnie Walker of Franklin Forest Elementary School has been named library media specialist of the year for the Troup County school system.

The award recognizes those whose services have resulted in exemplary library media programs for kindergarten through 12th-grade.

“My goal is to promote a love of reading to all students,” Walker said. “It is so rewarding to see the students excited about reading and learning. My role is to provide resources and instructional support to teachers and students to support grade-level standards.”

A media committee made the selection.

Besides managing the library programs in their schools, media specialists serve as research and literacy educators, technology specialists and collaborative partners with classroom teachers. Selection criteria for the award take into account all of these responsibilities as well as the candidate’s leadership role, professional advocacy, success in involving parents and the community in the library program, and more.

Walker will represent the county in the regional competition for the state title. Pam Murphy of Long Cane Middle School won the county award in 2009 and went on to win the regional title.