The Pura Belpré Medal is presented biennially in recognition of a Latino/Latina writer and illustrator whose work best portrays, affirms and celebrates the Latino cultural experience in an outstanding work of literature for children or young adults.

… The award is named after the first Latina Librarian from the New York Public Library, who carried out pioneering work in preserving and disseminating Puerto Rican folklore. It reminds us of the importance of taking continuing pride in the culture and traditions of Latin America and how these books help preserve our ethnic mosaic.

• The award, established in 1996, is presented by the ALSC (Association of Library Services to Children), a division of the ALA, and co-sponsored by REFORMA (National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to the Spanish Speaking).
• Books published in the U.S. or Puerto Rico, in English, Spanish or bilingual format are eligible.
• All forms of writing that have the Latino cultural experience as a theme are eligible: fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
• An author or illustrator may be awarded the medal posthumously.
• The Award ceremony takes place during the summer at the ALA Annual Conference.
• Previous winners include Yuyi Morales for Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale, Pam Muñoz for Esperanza Rising.

Association for Library Services to Children
50 East Huron
Chicago, IL 60611-2795
United States

Tel: (800) 545-2433 ext. 2795
Fax: (312) 944-7671

e-mail: mparets@ala.org
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