Showcase encourages school librarians to ‘rise to the challenge’ one idea at a time

CHICAGO — Attendees of the AASL 16th National Conference & Exhibition are invited to jump start their conference experience by attending the IDEAxCHANGE. The IDEAxCHANGE, formerly the Exploratorium, showcases best practices from school library professionals from across the country. This two hour event, open to all registrants, takes place prior to the opening general session for the conference taking place Nov. 14-17, 2013, in Hartford, Conn.

The IDEAxCHANGE provides a national forum to share school library successes from a school, district or state level. At their own pace, attendees can browse tabletop learning stations created by their peers and be inspired by practices transforming school library programs. With 30 individual learning stations, attendees will leave prepared to “rise to the challenge” one idea at a time.

"We're looking forward to a great range of ideas and topics at this year's IDEAxCHANGE," said Rebecca Morris, IDEAxCHANGE chair. "Visit with our presenters for over 30 interactive displays about current and evolving topics in school libraries, including collaborating to teach the Common Core State Standards, building nonfiction reading activities and collections, fostering citizenship and global perspectives, and designing creative learning experiences for students. Take home lesson plans and learn about new online resources, and exchange ideas on trying these strategies with students and teachers at your school library."

A complete list of presentations can be found on the national conference website at national.aasl.org/ideaxchange.

Registration for the AASL 16th National Conference & Exhibition is now open at national.aasl.org. Those wishing to join their colleagues for dedicated learning and networking are encouraged to register before the Aug. 22 early bird deadline to save $100 on registration rates.

The AASL national conference is the only national conference dedicated solely to the needs of school librarians and their roles as educational leaders. The 16th National Conference & Exhibition, "Rising to the Challenge," taking place Nov. 14–17, 2013, in Hartford, Conn., will feature preconference workshops, concurrent sessions and an exhibition featuring companies relevant to the school library profession.

The American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), promotes the improvement and extension of library services in elementary and secondary schools as a means of strengthening the total education program. Its mission is to advocate excellence, facilitate change and develop leaders in the school library field.