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CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) has launched new Communities of Practice (CoP) as an exclusive benefit to its members. These online communities provide a gathering space for like-minded school library professionals to discuss, share, and learn around a central topic. The five newly launched communities focus on digital and technology tools; diversity, equity, and inclusion; information literacy instruction, literature/reading promotion, and teacher collaboration. To explore and join visit, .

“Our learning is elevated when we take the opportunity to learn with others,” said AASL President Jennisen Lucas. “Think back to when you had your last ‘a-ha’ moment. Chances are, you were sharing knowledge with your peers at a face-to-face event or at a webinar when the information clicked – and a new best practice was born. By joining one, two – or all – of AASL’s new Communities of Practice, you’ll be instantly connected to a vast network of colleagues who you can learn from, share with, and enjoy the company of.”

Through the communities, AASL members can share professional passions or concerns and in turn, collectively create best practices, curate resources, or develop new tools. Each CoP will develop its own organization and structure and assign volunteer roles as needed. Possible roles could include discussion monitor, meeting coordinator, or special event/project coordinator. CoPs may opt to hold regular meetings, form a book club, or present a webinar or conference program. The only requirement of the CoPs is to hold a regular meeting during the second week of July.

The initial five Communities of Practice were identified through a member survey conducted by the AASL Member Engagement Committee and approved by the AASL Board of Directors. To remain timely, the number of available communities and topics of focus will shift to meet the changing needs of AASL membership. The CoPs will be reviewed annually for changes or additions.

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