National School Library of the Year Award
Sponsored by Follett Content
Monetary Amount: $10,000
The current award cycle has ended. The award applications will open on September 1, 2025.
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
2024 Recipient
Syosset High School
Syosset, New York
"Thank you to AASL and Follett for honoring the transformative role of Syosset High School’s Library Learning Commons. This award is a testament to the collaboration among our innovative faculty and driven students, and a supportive administration and Board—who all share a belief that school libraries can and do change lives. We’re proud to be a national model for the powerful impact school libraries have on building community. deepening inquiry, and fostering a sense of purpose and meaning for EVERYONE."
-Dr. Sarah Wasser, Library Media Specialist, Syosset High School
Photo in order: Ms. Kristina Holzweiss, Educational Technology Specialist, Ms. Trish Sergi, Library Media Specialist, and Dr. Sarah Wasser, Library Media Specialist
