The Caldecott Award, officially known as the Randolph Caldecott Medal, is issued annually by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). This prestigious award recognizes excellence in American children's picture books.
Understanding the Caldecott Medal
Named in honor of the renowned nineteenth-century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott, the medal celebrates the artist responsible for the most distinguished American picture book for children published in the United States during the preceding year.
Key Aspects of the Award
To provide a clear overview of the Caldecott Medal's issuer and purpose, here are its key aspects:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Issuing Body | Association for Library Service for Children (ALSC) |
| Parent Body | American Library Association (ALA) |
| Awarded Annually | Yes, it is an annual award. |
| Recipient | The artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children. |
| Named After | Randolph Caldecott, a significant 19th-century English illustrator. |
Why the Caldecott Medal Matters
The Caldecott Medal plays a crucial role in:
- Promoting Excellence: It highlights outstanding artistic contributions and innovation in children's literature.
- Guiding Readers: It serves as a valuable guide for parents, educators, and librarians in identifying high-quality, impactful picture books.
- Honoring Artists: The award provides significant recognition and prestige to illustrators for their creative and influential work.
For more comprehensive information regarding the award, its criteria, and past winners, you can explore the American Library Association's Caldecott Medal page.
