MOULTRIE, GEORGIA –May 14, 2026- The Georgia Library Media Association (GLMA) has selected Melanie Turner, the library media specialist at C.A. Gray Junior High School, as the 2026 South Central Georgia Library Media Specialist of the Year (LMSOTY). This regional award recognizes K-12 library media specialists who demonstrate excellence in their profession through instructional leadership, collaborative partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of reading.
At C.A. Gray Junior High—known affectionately as "The Dream Factory"—Mrs. Turner has transformed the media center into the "intellectual and cultural heart" of the school. Her personal philosophy is rooted in inclusivity: "If a student does not like to read, we just haven't found the right book for them yet".
"Teenagers have many things on their minds, and reading can sometimes rank close to the bottom," shared Mrs. Turner. "Being recognized by my peers for my work in hosting exciting literacy events, making the library a welcoming place, and battling apathy for reading among teenagers makes me proud."
Innovative Literacy Leadership
Mrs. Turner is celebrated for her creative approach to engaging students, including several hallmark programs:
The Edible Book Fair: A community-wide event where students and staff create food-based projects representing their favorite books.
Genrefication: A "game-changing" reorganization of the library's fiction section into a "bookstore feel" to help students easily find books based on their interests.
Blind Date with a Book: A popular promotion where students check out wrapped books based on a "hook" to discover new genres.
Tome Reading Bowl: As a coach, Turner has led her team to the state level five times.
A Trusted Professional Mentor
Beyond her work with students, Mrs. Turner is a vital leader within the Colquitt County School District. She has led the district's media specialist group for two years and frequently mentors graduate interns and new librarians. Dr. Frederick T. Smith, Principal of C.A. Gray, praised her as "a visionary leader" whose "presence ensures that our media center serves as a true extension of the classroom".
What's Next
As a regional winner, Mrs. Turner is now a finalist for the state-level Georgia Library Media Specialist of the Year award, which will be announced on June 8th at the GLMA Summer Institute. She will also be featured in a special recognition session at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference (GaETC) in November.
"Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and the inspiration you provide through your library program," noted Award Chairs Amanda Clope and Angelyne Collins.
About GLMA: The Georgia Library Media Association (GLMA) is a professional organization dedicated to improving instruction through the effective use of library media services and technology in Georgia schools.