National School Library of the Year Award

Established in 1963, the award recognizes school libraries as a unique and essential part of their learning community. NSLY honors school libraries exemplifying implementation of AASL's National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries.

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Sponsored by Follett ContentFollett Content

Monetary Amount: $10,000

Apply Now

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

Eligibility

The school librarian must be a personal member of AASL. Only individual schools are eligible to apply.*

Criteria

The following elements are the groundwork for an effective school library and must be present for consideration:

  1. The school library’s mission, goals, and objectives relate to the mission, goals, and objectives of the school’s and district’s long-range plan.
  2. The school library is continuously assessed and evaluated to ensure that it meets the needs of all members of the learning community.
  3. The school library is a dynamic learning environment that bridges the gap between equitable access and opportunities for all learners.
  4. The library scheduling is thoughtfully designed to ensure learners have access to school library services, spaces, and resources at the point of need.

Application process

Applicants must submit an electronic portfolio. The electronic portfolio must include:

  1. Description of the Community Served
  2. Evidence for how the school library demonstrates each indicator under the following Shared Foundations: Inquire, Include, Collaborate, Curate, Engage, Explore
  3. Letters of Endorsement

Download Rubric
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

Photo in order: Ms. Kristina Holzweiss, Educational Technology Specialist, Ms. Trish Sergi, Library Media Specialist, and Dr. Sarah Wasser, Library Media Specialist

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Syosset High School
Syosset, New York

"Thank you to AASL and Follett for honoring the transformative role of Syosset High School’s Library Learning Commons. This award is a testament to the collaboration among our innovative faculty and driven students, and a supportive administration and Board—who all share a belief that school libraries can and do change lives. We’re proud to be a national model for the powerful impact school libraries have on building community. deepening inquiry, and fostering a sense of purpose and meaning for EVERYONE."

-Dr. Sarah Wasser, Library Media Specialist, Syosset High School


Photo in order: Ms. Kristina Holzweiss, Educational Technology Specialist, Ms. Trish Sergi, Library Media Specialist, and Dr. Sarah Wasser, Library Media Specialist

Award Information