Whereas, Lisa Mecklenberg Jackson earned her Masters of Library Science Degree from the University of Washington in 1997; and,

Whereas, for more than twenty-five years Lisa served the information needs of Montanans from all walks of life as the librarian for the Montana Legislature, then at the Missoula Public Library, followed by service as State Law Librarian and most recently as a Missoula Public Library Trustee; and,

Whereas, Lisa’s professional dedication as both a librarian and an attorney was an inspiration to many of her colleagues; and,

Whereas, Lisa worked tirelessly for the Montana library community by acting as the President of the Montana Library Association from August 2016 through June 2018; and,

Whereas, since 2010, Lisa led, and was the heart, soul, and energizer bunny of the Montana Library Association’s Sheila Cates Scholarship Committee; and,

Whereas, Lisa always made sure to put the FUN in fundraising; and,

Whereas, Lisa was Montana libraries’ greatest champion, seeking new ways to promote our profession, notably through the Book Babes under the Big Sky calendar; and,

Whereas, Lisa ensured that Montana librarians knew and LOVED her beloved Elvis Presley; and,

Whereas, Lisa guided the work of her colleagues with her constant sparkling smile, never dominating, but inspiring us to dive in, have fun, and make work fun for everyone; and,

Whereas, even when not working directly with libraries, Lisa always found ways to contribute her knowledge and experience to the profession; and

Whereas, Lisa was the embodiment of a life lived in service; even when she was not well she continued to serve and volunteer and contribute to causes far beyond libraries.

Now therefore, be it resolved that the Montana Library Association Special Friend to Libraries Award be forever renamed to the Lisa Mecklenberg Jackson Special Friend to Libraries award; and,

Be it further resolved that Lisa will forever be remembered as a beloved lifelong friend and champion of Montana libraries.

Adopted by the Montana Library Association Board of Directors; July 2024