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CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) formally commends the ’s (TABCO) Anti Book Banning Committee, approving a resolution made by the Maryland Association of School Librarians (MASL), an AASL Chapter. AASL annually recognizes outstanding programs, events, and products nominated by AASL Chapters for their support of the school librarian profession and the learners the profession serves. The full list of 2024 commendations can be found on the AASL website.

The Teachers Association of Baltimore County’s (TABCO) goal is to provide a unified voice for school librarians, classroom teachers, other certified educational staff, and education support professionals across the district. Based on the association’s belief that the freedom to read content representing a variety of diverse subjects is the hallmark of a truly free society, it supported the formation of an Anti Book Banning Committee. The committee championed the passage of the Freedom to Read Act (HB 785/SB 738) and educate the public of the negative impacts and implications attached to book banning.

“Thank you, TABCO, for your efforts to raise awareness against book banning and for recognizing the importance of diverse collections in supporting all students,” said MASL President Stacey Nunn. “Your ability to listen and act swiftly on legislative matters has made a meaningful impact. Moreover, your proactive stance in promoting intellectual freedom will leave a lasting mark that highlights the core values of your unified voice for all educators, including school librarians.”

AASL President Becky Calzada added, “Our AASL Chapters have brought forth eighteen stellar commendations. These recognitions highlight the advocacy of intellectual freedom, access of inclusive literature, celebrates students' use of media and technology that incorporates the integration of AASL Standards and advances the understanding of school librarians as educators. The AASL Board of Directors is grateful for the keen eyes of our state chapter leaders for bringing these resolutions forward. Commendations acknowledge and expand awareness of the important work happening in many local communities in support of school libraries, school librarians and the learners they serve.”

All AASL Chapters are eligible to nominate outstanding programs, events, and products for national recognition. To be commended, nominees must align with the principles expressed in the AASL's mission and value statements. The full list of 2024 commendations can be found on the AASL website.

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