Sponsored by ProQuest

Monetary Amount: $2,000 to the recipient, $1,000 to the school library of the recipient's choice

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Deadline: Click the "Apply Now" above to access the online application until 4:30 pm CST on February 1, 2025.

Overview

The Intellectual Freedom Award is given for upholding the principles of intellectual freedom as set forth by the American Association of School Librarians and the 91´«Ã½.

Eligibility

1. The recipient shall be a personal member of AASL.
2. The recipient has not received another ProQuest, Inc. sponsored Intellectual Freedom Award in the same year.

Criteria

The following criteria will be used in the selection process:

1. The recipient shall meet at least one of the following criteria:
   • Has developed and implemented an exemplary selection policy/challenge procedure
   • Has developed an innovative information program on intellectual freedom.
   • Has upheld intellectual freedom principles in the face of a challenge.
   • Has contributed to the literature of the field (print or non-print).
   • Has been active in the establishment and/or continuation of a coalition relating to intellectual freedom at a local, state or national level.
2. At least one supporting letter of reference must accompany the application form. The reference must substantiate that the applicant has upheld the principles of intellectual freedom, and has met at least one of the criteria listed above. The letter must be submitted by one of the following:
   • District library supervisors.
   • State, county or district school superintendents or building principals.
   • State, district and local library organizations.
   • Directors of curriculum and instruction.
   • Directors of elementary and/or secondary education.
   • State school library supervisors.
   • Local school board members.

Nominations will be accepted by organizations or individuals.

Download Criteria & Rating Sheets

Download Copy of Application

* Please note: This downloadable version is for informational purposes only. All applications must be submitted online, via the Apply Now button that will appear at the top of the page when the next award season opens in early September.

Questions

Allison Cline
Deputy Executive Director

2024 Recipient

Cathi Fuhrman
State College Area School District
State College, Pennsylvania

"I am honored to receive the AASL Intellectual Freedom Award and represent the tireless work school librarians face protecting students’ right to read. Thank you to Proquest for sponsoring the award and to PSLA, my co-chair Amanda Deck, and to Beth Shenefiel, who helped me establish our Intellectual Freedom Task Group. Their unending support has enabled me to advocate as an advisor, champion, and shield in the battle for our students’ access to books and information."

Past Recipients