AASL and ALSC Partner with Pokémon to Launch School and Public Library Pokémon Clubs

CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and the Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC), divisions of the American Library Association (ALA), are excited to announce a new partnership with The Pokémon Company International (TPCi) to bring Pokémon Clubs to school and public libraries across the United States.

The collaboration aims to encourage literacy, foster community engagement, and provide fun, educational experiences for children. Pokémon Clubs will provide an interactive space for children and families to explore the world of Pokémon through games, reading activities, and community events. The clubs will feature Pokémon content and activities to spark creativity and learning.

“By combining the fun and excitement of Pokémon with the rich learning resources available in libraries, we are creating safe spaces where children can play, engage, learn, grow, and connect with their peers,” said Amanda Kordeliski, AASL President.

“Libraries serve as important spaces for children and families. This partnership with Pokémon supports the many ways libraries create spaces and places for children and families to read, learn. and play,” said Dr. Claudette S. McLinn, President, Association of Library Service to Children (ALSC).

The Pokémon Clubs will be available to AASL and ALSC members in both school libraries and public libraries, ensuring that children from all backgrounds and communities have access to these clubs.

“We are thrilled to work alongside AASL, ALSC, and libraries nationwide to create meaningful experiences for young learners and Pokémon fans,” said Leonardo Ortiz Villacorta, Casual Play Lead at The Pokémon Company International. “Pokémon has always been about connection, exploration, and personal growth, and we hope to inspire a new generation to discover the magic of learning through play.”

AASL and ALSC members interested in starting a Pokémon Club can visit www.ala.org/pokemon for more information and to submit an application.

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

The Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association, is driven by approximately 4,000 members dedicated to the support and enrichment of library service to children. Our members include youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty. ALSC supports its members in engaging communities to build healthy, successful futures for all children.

About Pokémon
The Pokémon Company International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Company in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing, marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, the animated TV series, home entertainment, and the official Pokémon website. Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and today is one of the most popular children’s entertainment properties in the world. For more information, please visit www.pokemon.com.