Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award

Robert F. Sibert
Informational Book Award

The Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award, established by the Association for Library Service to Children in 2001 with support from Bound to Stay Bound Books, is awarded annually to the author(s) and illustrator(s) of the most distinguished informational book published in the United States in English during the preceding year.

The award is named in honor of Robert F. Sibert, the long-time President of
Bound to Stay Bound Books, Inc. of Jacksonville, Illinois.

ALSC administers the award.
CLICK HERE to visit the ALA/ALSC web page.

What Is the
Robert F. Sibert
Informational
Book Award?

This award recognizes the author of the most distinguished informational book published during the preceding year. Informational books are those written and illustrated to present, organize and interpret verifiable, factual material for children. There are no limitations as to the character of the book, although poetry and traditional literature are not eligible. The award will be selected annually by a committee that can also name honor books. The winner will be announced at the ALA Awards press conference during the midwinter meeting and honored at the ALA Annual Conference.

Who Was
Robert F. Sibert?

Robert F. Sibert was the longtime President of Bound to Stay Bound Books, Inc. in Jacksonville Illinois. He distinguished himself within the American Library Association through his early work in establishing standards for book binding. His support of the library profession, and library education in particular, remains evident through the BTSB Scholarship. The Annual Scholarship, sponsored by BTSB and established in 1984, provides financial assistance in the form of annual awards for the education of individuals who intend to pursue an MLS or advanced degree and who plan to work in the area of library service to children.

"My father lived, breathed and dreamed children's books. I can't think of a tribute he would have been prouder of than to have his name forever associated with the great authors who I know will win this award," said Robert L. Sibert.

Why Informational Books?

"Informational books are absolutely essential for school and public libraries as they help young people explore the world around them. It is only fitting that there be an award that encourages excellence in these types of books." – Robert L. Sibert.

2025 Medal Winner & Honor Books

Click on any picture to be directed to the BTSB Bookstore where you can find more information and order these book(s).

Award Winner

A book about the rich ecosystem that springs up around the death of a whale in the deep sea.

Honor Book

Shows the emotional highs and lows of Roberto Clemente’s career as he fought racism–from fans, reporters, and other figures in the sport–to become one of the greatest baseball players of all time.

Honor Book

Bletchley Park was a well-kept secret during World War II, operating under the code name Station X. The critical work of code-cracking Nazi missives that went on behind its closed doors could determine a victory or loss against Hitler’s army. Amidst the brilliant cryptographers, flamboyant debutantes, and absent-minded professors working there, it was teenaged girls who kept Station X running. Some could do advanced math, while others spoke a second language.

Honor Book

A gripping memoir about a young Jewish girl’s fight for survival during the Holocaust. In graphic novel format.

Honor Book

Billy Mills was once an orphan on the Oglala Lakota Pine Ridge Reservation. But before his father died, he told Billy how to conquer his suffering. You have broken wings, son. You have to dig deep below the anger, hurt, and self-pity. The pursuit of a dream will heal you. Inspired by his Indigenous ancestors who stood strong when the odds were against them and at times feeling like his wings were clipped, he adapted and overcame, finally earning his place at the 1964 Olympics.