Maryland Association of School Librarians receives AASL Chapter of the Year Award

CHICAGO – The Maryland Association of School Librarians (MASL) is the recipient of the 2021 American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Chapter of the Year Award. The $1,000 award recognizes the AASL Chapter most active and dynamic in achieving the goals of AASL at the state and local level.

“From an impressive amount of professional development to advocacy efforts and organic PLN opportunities as a part of the pandemic, the Maryland Association of School Librarians deserves the AASL Chapter of the Year Award,” said Nichole Ballard-Long, award committee chair. “Their intentional focus on diversity, racism, and leadership is timely and appropriate – MASL is a chapter that provides a commendable body of services for its members.”

To be eligible for the award, the school library association must be a current AASL Chapter and have been affiliated for a minimum of two years. Other criteria include involvement in community, education, and legislative efforts for a stronger voice for school librarians and the profession. The organization should also have a regular communication channel that, along with their own activities, promotes AASL events and initiatives.

“Thank you for this recognition and honor,” said Donna Mignardi, MASL secretary. “The Maryland Association of School Librarians understands and appreciates the importance of involvement in our national organization. As we continue to grow as a state organization, our members and executive board are dedicated to advocating and strengthening our school libraries across the state and nationally. Our selection as AASL Chapter of the Year affirms our vision that Maryland school libraries are a positive force for our students, faculty, and school communities.”

The AASL award winners will be recognized during the 2021 AASL National Conference taking place October 21-23 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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