Scotts Ridge Middle School named National School Library of the Year

CHICAGO – Scotts Ridge Middle School, located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is the recipient of the American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) 2025 National School Library of the Year (NSLY) Award. Sponsored by Follett Content, the NSLY Award annually honors a school library that exemplifies the implementation of AASL's National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries. Scotts Ridge Middle School will receive a crystal obelisk – the symbol of school library excellence – and $10,000 toward its school library.

“The dedication to collaboration, innovation, and student involvement at Scotts Ridge Middle School is reflected in its dynamic programs and initiatives,” said committee co-chair Sam Northern. “Under Janine’s leadership, the library has become a central hub for learning and creativity, enhancing the educational experience, fostering a love for reading and learning, and preparing students for a successful future.”

Jessica Burns, 7th grade social studies teacher at Scotts Ridge, shares, “The Scotts Ridge Library Learning Commons has become a transformative space where all members of the school community feel safe to take risks, explore new literary work, make meaningful connections, and want to be. It has become the beating heart of the school and is no longer thought of as a room that houses books.”

“It is evident that the school library staff collaborate extensively with teachers, administrators, authors, and students, supported by a strong administrative foundation,” said award committee co-chair Mary Woodard. “Scotts Ridge highlights meaningful partnerships and a focused reflection on program growth across the shared foundations.”

Katy Binder, parent and school library volunteer for Scotts Ridge Middle School, submitted their endorsement that “The school library’s mission complements the broader school goals, promoting reading, digital literacy, and creative problem-solving within a safe and ethical environment.” Binder adds, “Centrally located in the school, the school library acts as not only an extension of the classroom but as a safe space for creative thinkers.”

“Under the leadership of our Library Media Specialist, Ms. Johnson, the library has evolved into a vibrant space that goes beyond conventional expectations. The innovative programs, resourceful services, and engaging activities orchestrated by Janine and her assistant, Emily Shiller, have significantly enriched the educational experience of our students,” submitted Principal Timothy Salem. Salem adds, “One of the key strengths of the LLC lies in its ability to adapt to the changing educational landscape. Integrating technology, creating interactive learning spaces, and establishing collaborative initiatives with teachers and students has transformed the library into a modern educational powerhouse.”

“The National School Library of the Year award shines a spotlight on the profound impact a school library can have on every member of a school community,” said AASL President Becky Calzada. “At Scotts Ridge Middle School, it is clear there is a deep commitment to nurturing a supportive and dynamic learning environment. The strong collaboration between the library staff and administration demonstrates the school’s unwavering belief in the library as a cornerstone of student success. Congratulations to Scotts Ridge Middle School on this well-deserved recognition!”

The AASL award winners will be recognized during the 2025 AASL National Conference taking place October 16-19 in St. Louis, Missouri.

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

About Follett Content Solutions
Follett Content Solutions is the largest provider of educational materials to PreK-12 libraries, classrooms, learning centers and school districts in the United States, and a major supplier to educational institutions worldwide. Follett Content distributes library books, textbooks, supplemental books, hands-on learning resources and Makerspace, audiovisual materials and digital resources through Titlewave, the most powerful online collection development and curriculum support tool for school libraries, librarians, and educators. Find Follett Content on Facebook and Instagram and follow them on X (formerly Twitter) (@FollettContent).