A DUDLEY librarian has celebrated being named librarian of the year by the Romantic Novelists Association.

Sharon Whitehouse won the Librarian of the Year award at the RNA’s annual industry awards which celebrate the hard work and talent of any person, group or organisation who has championed the broad genre of romantic fiction in a positive way.

Sharon, who has worked for Dudley Libraries for 37 years, was recognised for her work promoting romantic fiction and writers.

Most recently she worked with authors to provide talks for library users across the borough, which were really well attended and received.

As library manager for Dudley and Gornal libraries, she has arranged numerous author talks, ghost story evenings, theatre performances and recently divination and palm reading evenings.

Sharon said: “I am grateful to Joanna Toye, well-known author and TV and radio scriptwriter, for nominating me for this award following two tours of successful author talks at Dudley Libraries.

“I feel very proud that such a prestigious organisation as the RNA has chosen me to be their Librarian of the Year. Their focus is to raise the profile of romantic fiction and support authors of the genre. As librarians, we strive to make a difference to people’s lives in our local communities.

“We can only achieve this together, so I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues at Dudley Libraries and GLL. I am sharing the honour of the award with them as they all deserve the recognition too.”

Councillor Laura Taylor-Childs, Dudley’s cabinet member responsible for libraries, added: “I’m delighted that Sharon’s enthusiasm and commitment have been recognised. All our staff work incredibly hard but it’s lovely to see an individual being recognised for going above and beyond.

“Library events are so important as they support authors, promote reading and bring in new users to enjoy a library experience.”