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CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) is now accepting applications for its 2011 National School Library Program of the Year (NSLPY) Award. The deadline for applications is Jan. 3, 2010.

The NSLPY award, established in 1963, recognizes school library programs that meet the needs of the changing school and library environment and ensure that the students and staff are effective users of ideas and information. The award honors those programs that empower learners to be critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers and ethical users of information. Each winning program - two individual schools and one school district - receives a $10,000 prize ($30,000 total) donated by Follett Library Resources.

New this year, applicants should use the to submit their application. The criteria for winners has also changed to reflect AASL's program guidelines.

Applicants for the NSLPY Award should address the criteria outlined in "Empowering Learners: Guidelines for School Library Programs" (2009). The first section establishes the foundational elements for school library programs and serves as the basis for what is outlined under Sections I-V of the publication. Each item should be addressed in the application with supporting evidence using the rubric as a guide. Personal members that are considering applying for the award are encouraged to download a copy of the rubric.

"I encourage all exemplary school library programs to make applying for the National School Library Program of the Year Award a priority this year," said AASL President Nancy Everhart. "Winning this AASL award is not only recognition of a job well done; it is advocacy on a national stage for school librarians and their programs."

Questions about the NSLPY application process can be directed to Melissa Jacobsen, (312) 280-4381. Other AASL awards applications will the first week of October.

The American Association of School Librarians, , a division of the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½), promotes the improvement and extension of library 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 field.