Standards Committee
The AASL Standards Committee is responsible for guiding the continuous development and evolution of professional learning resources, application materials, advocacy tools, and other initiatives related to the (forthcoming) second edition of the National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries. These resources support school library professionals, at all levels of experience, in effectively implementing the AASL Standards across a range of K-12 educational settings.
Deliverables & Outcomes
- Research and Trends Analysis: Review research findings related to the AASL Standards, while monitoring emerging trends and developments in education to identify opportunities for enhancing implementation support.
- Implementation Strategy: Maintain a comprehensive implementation plan that outlines strategic resources to support professional learning, application, collaboration, and advocacy efforts related to the AASL Standards.
- New Initiatives: Propose new projects, tools, and resources to the AASL Board of Directors for consideration and assignment to ad hoc groups as appropriate.
- Committee Responsibilities: Execute tasks and initiatives directly assigned to the committee, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
- Collaboation Across Committees: Facilitate and oversee AASL Standards-related work through coordinated liaison assignments with other AASL committees and task forces.
- Standards Review and Recommendations: Regularly assess the relevancy of the National School Library Standards and provide recommendations for revisions or updates when necessary.
Estimated Time Commitment
The full committee meets monthly for approximately 1 hour.
Project work will depend on the initiatives being carried forward from the implementation plan each year and can fluctuate considerably depending on the project requirements. Some months may require 10+ hours of work while others will have little to no work assignments.
The Standards Committee chairperson will have an additional monthly check-in meeting with the staff liaison for strategic planning and facilitation of committee work.
Special Considerations
A dedicated application process is used to appoint members to the AASL Standards Committee.
The committee will begin observational work in July 2025, collaborating with the current AASL Standards Committee in preparation for the release of the second edition of the National School Library Standards at the 2025 AASL National Conference. While this committee will not be directly responsible for conference offerings, engaging with the current committee work will provide valuable insights to support efforts to advance implementation and further develop projects aligned with the upcoming edition.
Skills, Knowledge, or Experience
Preferred:
- Strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by school librarians in their daily practice.
- In-depth knowledge of current trends within the school library profession and the broader educational landscape, with the ability to anticipate future developments.
Required:
- Familiarity with the (forthcoming) second edition of the National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries, with a demonstrated commitment to applying these standards in practice.
Committee Composition & Term Length
Standards Committee members (minimum of five members) serve staggered two-year terms; position is limited to two consecutive terms. Prior AASL committee experience is preferred.
Standards Committee chair (one chairperson) serves a two-year term; position is limited to four consecutive years. Prior Standards Committee experience is preferred.
Please note: You will need to log in to the AASL website to access the application.
Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on March 24.