Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal is a prize awarded by the American Library Association (ALA) to writers or illustrators of children''s books published in the United States who have over a period of years made substantial and lasting contributions to children''s literature. The bronze medal prize is named after its first winner, twentieth-century American author Laura Ingalls Wilder. Originally, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal was awarded every five years, 6 prizes between 1955 and 1980. From 1980 to 2001 it was awarded every three years, 7 prizes. Since 2001 it has been awarded every two years.