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 a statement. 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. Voting for the 2026 ALA elections will open on Monday, March 9, 2026 and close on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

The candidates for the American Association of School Librarians, President-elect are:

Barbara Johnson

Heather Thore

Barbara Johnson:

As an AASL Board member who worked on the strategic plan, I know I am called to champion the meaningful engagement of our members.

My greatest opportunity is to continue to foster the common beliefs that we are stronger together, there is value in AASL membership, and the need to expand other’s understanding of what librarians do, what value we offer, and the experts that we are. Membership is an investment in your professional knowledge, network, and support system. AASL MUST be the place where members feel united, strong, and encouraged to fight the fight; for our students, for our profession, and for the formidable institutions that school libraries are. We MUST come together to support and speak up for one another when some feel they can’t.

When we come together in this manner, the final focus of the AASL Strategic Plan, Leadership Engagement, becomes a natural byproduct. Leaders mentor members to become leaders, members connect and recognize and encourage each other to become leaders. School librarians are perceived as leaders, I see you all as leaders.

It would be my esteemed privilege to advocate on your behalf and to help guide the AASL membership through the next few years.

 

Heather Thore:

As a school librarian and leader, I am committed to AASL’s mission to empower us to transform teaching and learning. My passion is building community, elevating others, and ensuring that every librarian feels supported in growing as a leader; this correlates to the leadership engagement piece of AASL’s strategic plan.

Leadership looks different across our diverse membership, and the AASL Board plays a vital role in creating multiple, accessible pathways for engagement. Members want to contribute, but they need flexible structures that honor their time and expertise. When opportunities are intentional and supportive, participation becomes meaningful and energizing.

Our state chapters are the backbone of AASL, providing community, professional learning, and leadership development. Many face challenges with resources, membership, or policies. Strengthening partnerships—built on listening, clarity, and shared goals—is essential to helping
every chapter thrive.

Clear communication and transparency are the foundation of a collaborative, engaged association. Members deserve consistent updates, clear reasoning behind decisions, and open channels for feedback.

After stepping back from volunteer roles to complete my doctorate, I am eager to re-engage with renewed focus. If elected, I will prioritize expanding leadership engagement opportunities, building strong chapter partnerships, and maintaining transparent communication to ensure all members feel informed, valued, and empowered.