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CHICAGO – Attendees of the American Association of School Librarian’s (AASL) 15th National Conference and Exhibition will have a chance to build community and network before touching down in Minneapolis this October 27-30 thanks to the AASL 2011 Conference Ning located at .

"The AASL Ning is a virtual learning commons where everyone can participate in conversations for learning and contribute to the conference experience whether you are attending in person or following the conference from afar," said Buffy Hamilton, national conference social media chair. "The AASL11 Ning will be the premiere conference location to think, create, share and grow with others from the school library profession nationally!"

Registered members can engage in forum discussions, create and comment on blog posts, upload conference media, follow #aasl11 tweets, join groups and stay up-to-date on conference events and programs. Membership in the Ning is open to those attending national conference physically and virtually, offering attendees a chance to chat with others and dig deeper into material presented at conference sessions. Also, those looking to share a room in Minneapolis can do so by joining the roommate finder discussion.

The AASL 15th National Conference and Exhibition, "Turning the Page," is the only national conference dedicated solely to the needs of school librarians and their roles as educational leaders. Taking place Oct. 27-30, 2011 in Minneapolis, the AASL National Conference will feature preconferences, numerous concurrent sessions, more than 200 exhibiting companies, educational and school tours, a storytelling festival and special appearances by award-winning authors. Registration is now open at a discounted "early bird" rate. For more information or to register, visit .

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.