Should the Newberry be Revamped?

In a recent article by Valerie Strauss, “Book world debates value of Newbery Medal” (The Washington Post December 21, 2008), the contemporary value of the Newberry and surrounding debate in the literary community are explored. Should works of quality, no matter how difficult their social and cultural content, take precedent over works that are – or have the potential to be – more “generally” popular? What is the responsibility of this, and any, literary award?