Media Advisory – April 13, 2021
Gainesville, Fla. – eBranch Manager Otto Pleil received the 14th annual Guy Hudspeth Award from the Alachua County Library District Foundation in April for his commitment to accessibility in library services and extraordinary customer care.
The foundation added Pleil’s name to Katherine’s Tree, a 10-foot glass etching of the Tree of Knowledge standing in
The Guy Hudspeth Award, sponsored by the Kosman Foundation, honors an outstanding Library District employee annually. The award is named for retired librarian Guy Hudspeth.
Pleil is known for his exceptional level of professionalism and friendliness, and endlessly patient in sharing his knowledge with colleagues and patrons alike. As eBranch Manager, Pleil took on new importance during the pandemic when the Library Districts webpage became the patrons’ primary contact with the Library District. Pleil, who joined the Library District in 2004, is keenly focused on ADA accessibility and ensuring that everyone can easily use the website. Pleil meticulously trains staff on accessibility best practices, including alternative text descriptions for photos. In addition to his library career, Pleil is proud of his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.
“His years of public service are exceptional, distinct, and worthy of recognition,” wrote the award selection committee. Past Guy Hudspeth Award recipients choose the award winner each year.
The Alachua County Library District Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the Library District by providing supplemental funding with an emphasis on long-term support and planned giving. Learn more at www.acldfound.org.