National School Library of the Year Award
Sponsored by Follett Content
Monetary Amount: $10,000
Apply Now
Click the "Apply Now" to access the application. You must be a member to submit an application. Click the "Login" button in the upper-right corner of the website page before accessing the application.
Deadline: January 1, 2026
2026 Recipient
“I am beyond proud of how our Library Media Center supports students, classes, and our whole school community,” said Monica Caldicott, who was recently elected president-elect of the Association of Illinois School Library Educators. “That Vernon Hills High School students read is shown in our high book circulation, vibrant shelves and displays, biannual author visits, and a culture of reading. Our students also demonstrate high competence in research and choosing reliable sources of information.”
Eligibility
The school librarian must be a personal member of AASL. Only individual schools are eligible to apply.*
Criteria
The following elements are the groundwork for an effective school library and must be present for consideration:
- The school library’s mission, goals, and objectives relate to the mission, goals, and objectives of the school’s and district’s long-range plan.
- The school library is continuously assessed and evaluated to ensure that it meets the needs of all members of the learning community.
- The school library is a dynamic learning environment that bridges the gap between equitable access and opportunities for all learners.
- The library scheduling is thoughtfully designed to ensure learners have access to school library services, spaces, and resources at the point of need.
Application process
Applicants must submit an electronic portfolio. The electronic portfolio must include:
- Description of the Community Served
- School Profile, Digital Profile, Staffing Profile, Expenditure Report, and Collection Report
- Keystones
- Evidence for how the school library demonstrates each indicator under the following Shared Foundations: Inquire, Include, Collaborate, Curate, Engage, Explore
- Letters of Endorsement
Download Rubric
Download Copy of Application
* Please note: This downloadable version is for informational purposes only. All applications must be submitted online, via the Apply Now button that will appear at the top of the page when the next award season opens in early September.
Questions
Allison Cline
Deputy Executive Director
2025 Recipient
"We’re thrilled to be named the National School Library of the Year by the American Association of School Librarians and Follett! We believe school libraries are a sanctuary for reading, discovery, risk-taking, and, most importantly, connection. The “Fail Forward” culture at Scotts Ridge nurtures creativity and collaborative curiosity, benefiting our students and accelerating learning. This award is dedicated to the administrators, teachers, staff and students of Scotts Ridge Middle School."
Photo in order: Emily Schiller, Library Paraeducator and Janine Johnson, Library Media Specialist
