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AASL NEWS
For Immediate Release
September 1, 1997
Contact: Don Adcock
Phone: 312-280-4386
Fax: 312-664-7459

1997 Crystal Apple Award presented to DeWitt Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund

The 1997 American Association of School Librarians President's Crystal Apple Award is being presented to the DeWitt Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund for its vision and investment in school libraries through the National Library Power Program.

The Crystal Apple Award is given at the discretion of the AASL president to an individual or group that has had significant impact on school libraries and students.

The vision of the National Library Power was to create public elementary and middle school library programs that improved the quality of educational services to children. Using the school library as the catalyst for school reform, the National Library Power Program has demonstrated new ways of educating young people. DeWitt Wallace Reader's Digest Fund has invested $40 million, which has benefited 400,000 students nationwide.

Each Library Power project has reflected the uniqueness of its community while keeping in line with the national program goals. New and innovative uses of the school library media center's physical and human resources were encouraged. Library media programs became an integral part of the educational process. The role of the library media specialist as teacher and collaborator with teachers was strengthened.

The individual programs also demonstrated that school library media programs can make significant contributions to school reform and restructuring efforts. An important component of the project was the creation of partnerships among leaders in school districts, public libraries, community agencies, business communities, academic institutions and parent groups.

AASL, a division of the American Library Association, and the Public Education Network has provided expert technical assistance and program guidance to the sites during the project.

The award will be presented during the National Library Power Program Annual Meeting, September 25 -28, 1997, in Nashville.

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