Brunswick County organization recognizes librarian’s legacy

SUPPLY, NC (WWAY) — The Brunswick Town Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution has recognized one of its members for documenting the work of a North Carolina librarian who spent decades educating future librarians and serving communities in the Appalachian region.

Jane Welfare Hauser Johnson received the organization’s Women in American History Award during the chapter’s November meeting for her efforts to preserve the history of Ila Mae Taylor Justice.

Justice, who died in 2012, taught library science at Appalachian State University for 31 years, including 17 years as department chair.

Born in Crestmont, North Carolina, in 1914 and raised in Banner Elk, Justice joined the university in 1949. During her career, she taught an estimated 1,500 students who went on to become certified librarians.

Johnson was among the students Justice mentored during her time at the university.

Justice received several awards for her contributions to education. Appalachian State also named its Instructional Materials Center in honor of Justice and her longtime colleague, Eunice Query.

Brunswick Town Chapter Regent Barbara McIntyre presented the award to Johnson.

The recognition was created as part of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution’s America 250 observance, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The Brunswick Town Chapter has more than 180 members and is part of the national organization, which has more than 185,000 members worldwide.