Jessie Commerce receives AASL Frances Henne Award

CHICAGO – Jessie Commerce, assistant librarian at Salem Church Middle School in Richmond, Virginia, is the recipient of the 2026 American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Frances Henne Award. Sponsored by Bloomsbury Libraries Unlimited, the $1,250 award recognizes a school librarian with five years or less experience who demonstrates leadership qualities with students, teachers, and administrators. The award will enable Jessie to attend an ALA Annual Conference or AASL National Conference for the first time.

“Jessie embodies the spirit of the Frances Henne Award through her commitment to knowing learners deeply, collaborating meaningfully with educators, and evolving library services to meet changing needs,” said committee chair Sheila Michaels. “The committee could see that her leadership extends beyond the library walls, influencing school culture through her role as Equity Lead and her commitment to inclusive practices.”

Jessie shared with the committee that “looking ahead, my purpose extends beyond my own library. I aim to grow as a leader who advocates for inclusive, student-centered libraries and mentors others in designing engaging, future-focused programs. Through collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning, I seek to shape library spaces that empower students to become thoughtful, informed, and confident participants in their communities.”

“In her early career, she exemplifies the AASL National School Library Standards in action, particularly through her commitment to Include, Collaborate, and Engage, ensuring all learners experience equitable, meaningful opportunities for growth,” said AASL President Amanda Kordeliski. "Jessie’s role in her school community reflects the very foundation of AASL’s mission to empower leaders to transform teaching and learning, positioning her as an emerging voice who will actively contribute to our school librarian community.”

The AASL award winners will be recognized during the 2027 AASL National Conference taking place October 14-16 in Portland, Oregon.

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

Bloomsbury Libraries Unlimited (formerly known as Libraries Unlimited) is the premier publisher of educational and professional resources for librarians and information services specialists. Our line encompasses prestigious library science textbooks, information science resources, professional handbooks, and monographs, as well as manuals for library educators, graduate students, and practicing librarians.