National School Library of the Year Award Committee
Each year the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) invites members to apply for the National School Library of the Year (NSLY) Award. The National School Library of the Year (NSLY) Award, established in 1963, recognizes school libraries that are integral to their learning communities. The award honors libraries that demonstrate exemplary implementation of the AASL’s National School Library Standards. To be considered, a school library must align its mission and objectives with the broader goals of the school and district, undergo continuous assessment to meet community needs, serve as a dynamic learning environment ensuring equitable access for all learners, and provide thoughtful scheduling to guarantee access to library services, spaces, and resources when needed.
The National School Library of the Year Award committee thoroughly reviews, evaluates, and deliberates on all applications to select and announce the recipient of this esteemed honor.
Deliverables & Outcomes
- Reviews award information and encourages and promotes submissions from AASL members.
- Ensures accurate and timely review of award applications per specific award policy.
- Reviews and submits recommended changes to policy or award criteria to the AASL Board of Directors for consideration at ALA Annual Conference.
Estimated Time Commitment
Committee meetings include:
- Initial committee meeting for discussion and deliberation for finalist decision (1 hour)
- Virtual interviews with finalists (3 hours per finalist, up to 2 finalists)
- Co-Chairs only make in-person to the finalist school requiring travel and at least one night stay.
- Final determination meeting (1 hour)
The NSLY applications require significant time for review as each applicant submits a portfolio for review and ratings. Each application will require 2-3 hours each and a typical year can see 1-4 applications.
Special Considerations
Meeting attendance is a requirement to serve.
Skills, Knowledge, or Experience
The AASL Award Committees are a wonderful mixture of those new to committee work and veterans.
Committee Composition & Term Length
Two co-chairs each serving a one-year term.
Two to six members each serving one-year terms.