Nominated by colleague Mary Plumb, Binkley was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to literacy, creativity, and student engagement. A Falconer alumna and media specialist since 2004, Binkley has transformed her library into a hub of exploration and inclusion that includes district wide reading challenges and collaborative civic capstone projects. She spearheads events such as Computer Science Education Week and Pi Day, partners with teachers to co-design research-based instruction, and has even brought a planetarium experience to the region’s STEM summer camp.

Binkley’s media center is filled with flexible seating (including a stationary bike), Lego mural art, digital breakout rooms, and carefully curated book collections that reflect student interests. Her leadership extends beyond Falconer, as she supports regional library initiatives and professional development, including hosting a Western New York Library Resource Council meeting and participating in a three-week “AI in Libraries” workshop presented by the School Libraries Journal.

“Mrs. Binkley’s contributions to literacy and learning are both innumerable and transformative,” Plumb wrote in her nomination letter.

Known for her joyful, solution-driven personality and her instinct to say “Yes” and figure it out later, Binkley lives her philosophy: “I know that every kid is excited about something. I work to give them access to that thing,” she said.

Nora Neus, Emmy-nominated journalist and author of Muhammad Najem, War Reporter, spoke about her experiences working in Syria for CNN.

The award was given during the Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES School Library System’s final meeting of the year at the LoGuidice Educational Center, bringing together library professionals from across the region. The day was filled with inspiration, recognition, and creative energy, featuring presentations from three accomplished guest authors and culminating in the presentation of the E2CCB School Library Program Award.

The meeting began with a powerful lineup of guest speakers, each bringing a unique perspective on storytelling, creativity, and the role of literature in shaping young minds.

Nora Neus, Emmy-nominated journalist and author of Muhammad Najem, War Reporter, opened the day with a look at storytelling as a tool for processing trauma and building resilience. She spoke on her experience in Syria and also her work on “Renegade Girls,” the LGTBQ community, and the importance of media literacy.

Maria Scrivan, a New York Times bestselling author and syndicated cartoonist, followed with a humorous and heartfelt talk about her work in middle-grade graphic novels. Praised by Garfield creator Jim Davis for her ability to blend humor and heart, Scrivan shared her creative process and the importance of making young readers feel seen and understood.

Rachel DiNunzio, an artist, author, illustrator, and WNY native, rounded out the morning with her message of kindness and creativity. Known for her early reader series, Forsynthia: Rise of the Cupcakes, DiNunzio spoke about infusing imagination into education and the value of fostering curiosity through art and storytelling.

Rachel DiNunzio, an artist, author, illustrator, and WNY native, is pictured speaking before members of the School Library System.

The meeting concluded with retiree recognitions and updates. For more information about E2CCB Instructional Media and School Library Services, visit e2ccb.org.

Pictured, from left, are Maria Scrivan, Nora Neus, and Rachel DiNunzio. Each author took the time to sign copies of their books for members of the SLS. Submitted photos