LAW DAY: OBA Public Service Award Recipient Douglas County Law Library

Bright and early on Tuesday the 26th of April, people gathered in the Douglas County Legislative Chambers for a variety of recognitions. Among them was recognition of the Honorable Michael W. Amdor Memorial Law Library. The Omaha Bar Association awarded the Honorable Michael W. Amdor Memorial Law Library the 2022 OBA Public Service Award for Non-Attorneys with special recognition to Lynn M. Morton, who has served patrons of the library since 1992. The recipient of this award demonstrates these pillars: “The public’s knowledge of the law or the legal system has been enhanced in some significant way by the recipient’s efforts; The recipient has focused on providing service to the community for purposes other than pecuniary profits; and The recipient has demonstrated long term commitment to the enhancement of the public’s knowledge of the law.”

The Honorable Michael W. Amdor Memorial Law Library has been a staple inside the courthouse for many years. The library opened in 1911 and has been open to the public since 1979. Douglas County Commissioner, Jim Cavanaugh, read the proclamation of recognition: “[the library] provides members of the judiciary, attorneys, and residents of Douglas County with access to legal information…the law library and Ms. Morton represents the theme of the May 2nd, 2022 Law Day celebration: ‘Towards a More Perfect Union: The Constitution in Times of Change’ by providing the public with relevant access to the law that governs our free society through times of change, and whereas the board desires to commemorate the library’s dedication to serving the constitution and providing access to the courts throughout 100 years of change.”

The Law Library is committed to bringing about good changes regarding technological advances within the library itself in an initiative to be even more accessible. “This board looks forward to continued renovation and technology advancements. That will continue to uphold the constitution and serve patrons for the next century.” 

The county commissioner board recognized and congratulated the law library as well as Ms. Morton for their outstanding service to the public. Cavanaugh says, “providing access to the courts…is one of the hallmarks of our society.” This access provides insight and assistance to many, including those at the highest level of law. 

While Lynn Morton was unable to make the meeting, colleagues mention that “she is the face” of the library. The employees of the library were beyond grateful to be receiving this award. 

The county commissioners passed this motion of recognition 7-0.