AASL Commends the Diversity Awareness Youth Literacy Organization

CHICAGO – Acting upon a resolution submitted by the South Carolina Association of School Librarians (SCASL) the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) formally commends Diversity Awareness Youth Literacy Organization (DAYLO). The organization is one of twenty outstanding programs, events, and products recognized in 2023 for their support of the school librarian profession and the learners the profession serves.

DAYLO, a student-founded organization at Beaufort High School, uses a book club model to engage in works celebrating diverse viewpoints and to learn and teach themes of social justice and inclusivity. The organization is recognized for helping defend the intellectual freedom of all South Carolina students by mobilizing young leaders to speak up for First Amendment rights.

“SCASL is exceptionally proud of the young leaders of DAYLO for their work to speak up for books, defend intellectual freedom, and share the student perspective regarding censorship,” said SCASL President Michelle Spires.

AASL President Courtney Pentland added, “The commendations brought forth by AASL Chapters this year are representative of the amazing programs and advocacy efforts happening across the country in support of school libraries, school librarians, and the learners we all serve. I am grateful for organizations like those honored this year that also support literacy and intellectual freedom as these are essential skills and rights for everyone in our communities. We are definitely stronger together, and, through valuable partnerships like these, we can continue to help our learners build a foundation for a better tomorrow.”

All AASL Chapters are eligible to nominate outstanding programs, events, and products for national recognition. To be commended, nominees must align with the principles expressed in the AASL's mission and value statements. The full list of 2023 commendations can be found on the AASL website.

The American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning.