AASL transforms learning with new mission statement and strategic plan

CHICAGO –The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) challenges leaders in all fields to bring about an evolution in student learning with its adoption of a new mission statement and strategic plan. During the 2014 ALA Annual Conference in Las Vegas, the AASL Board of Directors unanimously voted to approve the mission statement: The American Association of School Librarians empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning.

“During our mission statement discussions, three key components rose to the top,” said said Eileen Kern, chair of the working group established to revisit the mission statement. “First is that the role of the school librarian is evolving and changing. School librarians serve as the guiding light in transforming learning through new tools and technology.  Second is that the essence of school libraries is teaching and learning. This concept places school libraries at the center of any discussion dealing with education. Last is our association's need to work with leaders, within and outside our profession, to be our voice in the transformation process.”

“My theme for my presidential year was ‘It's not about libraries; It's about learning,’” continues AASL President Gail Dickinson. “I am so pleased that the mission of the association focuses our attention on the importance of teaching and learning. It's a mission that will push the association to achieve our strategic plan in three critical areas:  remaining on the forefront of educational and technology trends, growing and strengthening the AASL community, and improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the internal governance structure.”

AASL President Terri Grief agrees, “What an exciting year to be president of AASL! The mission statement captures what we are and our new three-year strategic plan will guide the association in every decision. Having those two pieces will direct us in making AASL an even stronger association. We are 'transforming learning' both inside our association and out.”

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