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CHICAGO – The Tennessee Association of School Librarians (TASL) is the recipient of the 2020 American Association of School Librarians’ (AASL) Chapter of the Year Award. The $1,000 award recognizes the AASL Chapter most active and dynamic in achieving the goals of AASL at the state and local level.

“TASL’s application for Chapter of the Year was a standout with lots of evidence that supported receiving this year’s award,” said Susan Yutzey, award committee chair. “Building strong statewide advocacy through the TN Library Legislative Day, developing school librarian leadership capacity through professional development, webinars, TASL Talks, Twitter Media Minutes, and promoting AASL events and elections are among the many programs and activities highlighted in this well-developed and detailed application. Congratulations!”

To be eligible for the award, the school library association must be a current AASL Chapter and have been affiliated for a minimum of two years. Other criteria include involvement in community, education, and legislative efforts for a stronger voice for school librarians and the profession. The organization should also have a regular communication channel that, along with their own activities, promotes AASL events and initiatives.

“AASL Chapters are at the front lines of school librarianship,” said Mary Keeling, AASL president. “TASL does a fantastic job in forming coalitions and partnerships, conducting sustained political advocacy, offering a variety of professional development programs, and using social media to promote membership in 91´«Ã½ and AASL. I’m grateful to the chapter leaders for their energetic and forward-thinking work on behalf of school librarians, and I want to thank the AASL Chapter of the Year Award committee for their thoughtful work on this important award.”

The AASL award winners will be honored during a virtual AASL Awards Ceremony during the fall of 2020. The virtual ceremony will replace the live ceremony traditionally presented during the 91´«Ã½ Annual Conference. Out of concern for the health and safety of all members of the community, the 91´«Ã½ Executive Board felt it was important to cancel the 2020 conference taking place in Chicago. Details for the virtual ceremony will be shared as they are finalized.

The American Association of School Librarians, , a division of the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½), empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning.