Target to be honored with Crystal Apple

Contact: Melissa B. Jacobsen


AASL Communications Specialist


(312) 280-4381


mjacobsen@ala.org

NEWS


For Immediate Release


June 9, 2009

CHICAGO - AASL President Ann M. Martin has selected Target Brands, Inc. as the recipients of the 2009 Crystal Apple, the American Association of School Librarians announced. The honor is given at the discretion of the AASL president to an individual or group that has had a significant impact on school library media programs and students.

"It is because of Target’s dedication to dynamic school library media programs led by certified school library media specialists that it is the 2009 Crystal Apple recipient," Martin explains.

In her recommendation, Martin specifically cites Target Brands, Inc. for its leadership in transforming elementary school libraries across the country with its School Library Makeovers program. "Target’s collaborative initiatives to underwrite school library makeovers includes light construction and new design elements as well as providing funding for new furniture, paint, books and other library equipment," she notes. "School Library Makeovers is a program that provides students with exciting school libraries that have up-to-date collections and facilities that encourage equal access to the 21st century skills and contribute to academic achievement for all students."

The 2009 Crystal Apple Award will be presented to Target Brands, Inc. during the Awards Luncheon from noon. to 2 p.m. on Monday, July 13, at the 2009 ALA Annual Conference in Chicago. For more information about this event and more AASL programs at the conference, visit
http://www.ala.org/aasl/annual.

The American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), promotes the improvement and extension of library media 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 media field.