Ohio Children Spotlight of the Month: Natalie Nemunaitis
In recognition of her passion for literature and outstanding contributions to the world of reading, Chagrin Falls High School student Natalie Nemunaitis has been named a recipient of the 2024 READ On! Ohio Award for Children & Teens in the Northeast 9-12 division.
The prestigious award, presented by the Ohio Educational Library Media Association (OELMA), celebrates enthusiastic readers nominated by school and public librarians across the state. Natalie was nominated by Angie Jameson, the library media specialist at Chagrin Falls High School, who commended her “passion for literature, coupled with her academic excellence, makes her an outstanding candidate who will undoubtedly continue to make significant contributions to the world of literature.”
As the president of her school’s book club, Natalie has cultivated an inclusive and vibrant environment that attracts a diverse array of students. Her dedication to literature extends beyond extracurricular activities, she recently completed an AP research project investigating the impact of e-books and TikTok on library circulation in schools nationwide. According to Jameson, this project “showcased her ambition and ability to bridge technology and contemporary culture with traditional literature. Her study provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of library services.”
Natalie will be formally recognized at the 2024 OELMA Conference and Awards Ceremony, scheduled for October 2–4 at OCLC, Dublin, Ohio, where she will receive a certificate and a Barnes & Noble gift card in acknowledgment of her remarkable achievements and unwavering passion for reading.
Her story reminds us that the power of reading continues to inspire creativity, connection, and lifelong learning among Ohio’s young people.
