Union County Library Associate Carolina Escobedo Ramirez has received the County's quarterly "Caught in the Act" Award for exceptional care in assisting a family whose child ran from the building.

On June 3, 2026, a young boy visiting the Main Library with his grandmother ran through the library and out the front doors. Unable to catch him, the grandmother asked Escobedo Ramirez for help. She immediately ran after the child, trying to stop him by offering candy and toys. When he ran into the street, she stopped oncoming traffic to keep him safe. Once the boy stopped running, she escorted him back into the library and then into a meeting room with his grandmother. Her care and assistance didn't stop there. Seeing that the grandmother was visibly shaken, Escobedo Ramirez offered water and offered to call someone for help. 

"Carolina's quick response during [the incident] and care for the patrons after this incident shows the attention and compassion she has for the library's patrons on this day and every day," said Assistant Library Director Lindsey Shuford, who nominated Escobedo Ramirez for the Award. "She is the embodiment of what a library staff member should be."

The Caught in the Act Award recognizes County employees who go above and beyond their daily responsibilities to make a meaningful difference. Escobedo Ramirez is the first Library employee to receive the Award. The County's Management Team and Library leadership surprised Escobedo Ramirez with the Award on Aug. 18, 2026.

"Our team members genuinely care about the residents and patrons they interact with, and this incident is a testament to that," said County Manager Brian Matthews. "I'm thankful our staff was able to assist and ensure the child was safe."

As the recipient of this quarterly Award, Escobedo Ramirez will receive $250 for her service and is eligible for the annual Caught in the Act Employee of the Year Award.

Assistant County Manager Clayton Voignier, Caught in the Act Award recipient Carolina Escobedo Ramirez and County Manager Brian Matthews

Assistant Library Director Lindsey Shuford, Assistant Library Director of Operations Rachael Webb, Caught in the Act Award recipient Carolina Escobedo Ramirez, and Library Director Nina Chaffin