Backgrounder

About AASL and ALA

With more that 10,000 members, the  American Association of School Librarians (AASL) is one of the largest divisions of the American Library Association (ALA). It promotes the improvement and extension of school library services in elementary and secondary schools as a means of strengthening the total education program.

The  American Library Association (ALA) is the voice of America’s libraries. Its mission is to promote the highest quality library and information services and public access to information.

About NEA

The  National Education Association is the nation's largest professional organization, representing 2.8 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.

About Dollar General

Dollar General is a Fortune 500® discount retailer with 8,038 neighborhood stores in 33 states as of March 31, 2006. Dollar General stores offer convenience and value to customers by offering consumable basic items that are frequently used and replenished, such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids and cleaning supplies, as well as a selection of basic apparel, house wares and seasonal items at everyday low prices. The company has a longstanding tradition of supporting literacy and education in the U.S. In 2005, the company awarded more than 930 grants to nonprofit organizations that helped more than 81,000 individuals take their first steps toward literacy, a general education diploma or English proficiency. For more information about Dollar General, go to www.dollargeneral.com.