The Judy Lopez Story.

ABOUT JUDY:

Judy Lopez demonstrated a love of books in every aspect of her life.  Professionally, she was a publishers’ representative, book retailer, buyer for the California State University Bookstore, and a founding member of the Women’s National Book Association, Los Angeles chapter.  A promoter of literacy among young people, including her daughter, Coquille (Coco) Lopez, Judy recognized the need to develop a child’s love of books early in life. 

When Judy passed away in 1985, her family wanted to honor her memory by encouraging reading in children. Judy’s parents, Desda and Ralph Slottow established the awards with Ami Kirby, who was then the head of Children’s Services for the Santa Monica Public Library System. They also created the Judy Lopez Foundation, which included Judy’s brother, Jeffrey Slottow, and volunteer, Hadassa K. Gilbert. The first award presentation occurred on June 14, 1986, and the medalist was Pam Conrad, for Prairie Songs. 

The Judy Lopez Selection Committee continues to honor distinct children’s literature.  Each spring, a select number of books published in the United States during the previous year are selected. The medalist receives a stunning bronze medallion, created by the well-known sculptor, Alex Shagin, showing a young girl reading. The model was Judy Lopez’s daughter, Coco, then nine years old. The awards have gone to works of fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels and are formally presented, both publicly and virtually, and include featured appearances by many distinguished authors.

Each year since 1986, the Judy Lopez Memorial Award has brought new, outstanding books to the attention of librarians, teachers, booksellers, reviewers, and children.

The Judy Lopez Memorial Award is part of the Women’s National Book Association, Los Angeles, a 501 C3 non profit.

All  donations are tax-deductible.