It is time for the AASL membership to elect the volunteers who will lead our organization. Candidates will introduce themselves in a series of blogs, and were asked to prepare answers to the question:  They have also written answers to the following question: “Which part of the AASL strategic plan speaks to you most and why?” Please read through their answers below and be sure to vote when the ballot arrives in your inbox.

Statements and/or videos were a voluntary option offered to all candidates. All candidates were given an opportunity to respond. Voting for the 2025 ALA elections will open on Monday, March 10, 2025 and close on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

The candidates for the Director-At-Large are:

Melissa Corey

Kris Smith

 

Director-At-Large:

Melissa Corey

 

 

 

 

 

Meaningful Engagement resonates with me as a school librarian because our profession thrives when we collaborate and support each other. The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) offers invaluable professional development opportunities, such as the AASL National Conference, along with ongoing resources to connect school librarians across the country. AASL also fosters collaboration at the state level through initiatives like the Chapter Assembly, which strengthens connections between state chapters. This network provides school librarians with opportunities to build relationships both at the chapter and individual levels.

From the National School Library Standards to AASL Gatherings and School Library Month, AASL promotes the role of school librarians as educational leaders while offering avenues for meaningful engagement. As a school librarian without a library paraprofessional, I’ve personally experienced the importance of connecting with the broader school library community. AASL membership has enabled me to collaborate with librarians nationwide, benefiting from shared knowledge and resources.

One of AASL’s greatest strengths is providing access to the latest publications, websites, and social media that keep school librarians informed about trends, research, and best practices. This makes AASL an essential part of every school librarian’s professional learning network, emphasizing that we are indeed stronger when we work together. I am excited at the prospect of serving on the AASL Board of Directors in order to further the profession and increase engagement with members.