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CHICAGO – Acting upon a resolution submitted by the Ohio Educational Library Media Association (OELMA) the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) formally commends the . The program is one of twenty outstanding programs, events, and products recognized in 2023 for their support of the school librarian profession and the learners the profession serves.

The Queen City Book Bank works with the Cincinnati area community to champion the development of literacy through tutoring, little free libraries, literacy outreach and guaranteeing book access for all. The bank is recognized for increasing awareness of the importance of literacy and reading engagement through its efforts to partner with school librarians and educators in the greater Cincinnati area to end book deserts by providing diverse/bilingual books.

“OELMA awarded the Queen City Book Bank its 2023 Literacy Leader Award and nominated it for a 2023 AASL Commendation for championing literacy in Greater Cincinnati,” said Gayle Schmuhl, OELMA President. “Since 1986, QCBB has worked tirelessly to promote literacy through numerous successful initiatives including Little Free Libraries, literacy/outreach hub, and a Curated Book Distribution Program. It partners with local colleges, sports teams, authors and educators to bring books to all children and youth. QCBB has created a sustainable model, providing book access to ALL and thereby promoting success in literacy, education, and life.”

AASL President Courtney Pentland added, “The commendations brought forth by AASL Chapters this year are representative of the amazing programs and advocacy efforts happening across the country in support of school libraries, school librarians, and the learners we all serve. I am grateful for organizations like those honored this year that also support literacy and intellectual freedom as these are essential skills and rights for everyone in our communities. We are definitely stronger together, and, through valuable partnerships like these, we can continue to help our learners build a foundation for a better tomorrow.”

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 2023 commendations can be found on the.

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