American Association of School Librarians (AASL)

Alignment of School Librarian Preparation Standards with AASL Standards Examined in New School Library Research

CHICAGO – New research published in the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) peer-reviewed online journal, School Library Research (SLR), explores the alignment of the Standards Framework for School Librarians from AASL’s National School Library Standards with the ALA/AASL/CAEP Preparation Standards. SLR promotes and publishes high-quality original research concerning the management, implementation, and evaluation of school libraries. Articles can be accessed for free at www.ala.org/aasl/slr.

New Research Explores School Librarian and Teacher Collaboration

CHICAGO – New research published in the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) peer-reviewed online journal, School Library Research (SLR), explores successful strategies for school librarian and teacher collaboration. SLR promotes and publishes high-quality original research concerning the management, implementation, and evaluation of school libraries. Articles can be accessed for free at www.ala.org/aasl/slr.

School Library Month offers opportunities to celebrate the indispensable role of school librarians

CHICAGO – Each April during School Library Month, our nation celebrates the essential role of strong school libraries in transforming learning.

For this year’s celebration, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), sponsor of School Library Month, is encouraging school libraries to raise awareness of their unique contribution to both teaching and learning.

AASL’s guide to learning centers for school libraries

CHICAGO — Published by AASL and ALA Editions, Maura Madigan’s book “Learning Centers for School Libraries” presents innovative, engaging, and fun ideas to target the AASL National School Library Standards and content-area standards. It contains almost everything needed to set up learning centers in a school library. The ideas are flexible and can fit different grade levels and lesson lengths. Suggestions for collaboration with classroom educators are also included.

Travel Grants Available for First-Time AASL National Conference Attendees

CHICAGO — Thirty travel grants are available to school library professionals wishing to attend the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) National Conference for the first time.

The $750 grants for first-time attendees of the conference are sponsored by Bound to Stay Bound Books. Those interested in applying can access the application at national.aasl.org/btsb. The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. Central time on Fri., April 16, 2021. Late applications will not be considered.

AASL Releases Position Statement on Labeling Practices

CHICAGO – With its new position statement, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) upholds its position that a learner has the right to access resources freely and without restriction. The publication provides statements on labeling practices related to classification and shelving practices, labeling content, and reading levels, and protecting learners’ privacy and is available for download on the AASL website.

AASL Releases Position Statement on School Library Supervisors

CHICAGO – With its new position statement, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) declares that a qualified, district-level school library supervisor is a fundamental component of college, career, and community readiness for students in PreK–12 education. The full statement, including definitions, references, and recommended reading list, is available for download on the AASL website.

AASL Launches Final Snapshot Survey for 2020-2021 School Year

CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) has launched a survey to conclude the series of surveys launched in the spring of 2020 capturing the state of school libraries during pandemic school closures. The final survey is open to all school librarians through March 26, 2021, and can be accessed at www.ala.org/aasl/snapshot.

Karen Gabino Wins a Year of Free AASL Membership

CHICAGO – By sharing the wealth of AASL membership with a colleague, Karen Gabino, school librarian in Arizona, has won a free year of AASL membership. Gabino's name was drawn as a monthly winner of the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Share the Wealth Campaign. By referring DaNeil Olson to AASL, Gabino has been entered to win an AASL National Conference grand prize package, which includes registration, airfare, and hotel accommodations.

Mernie Maestas Wins a Year of Free AASL Membership

CHICAGO – By sharing the wealth of AASL membership with a colleague, Mernie Maestas, school librarian in Missouri, has won a free year of AASL membership. Maestas's name was drawn as a monthly winner of the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Share the Wealth Campaign. By referring Christine Manner to AASL, Maestas has been entered to win an AASL National Conference grand prize package, which includes registration, airfare, and hotel accommodations.