AASL Commends 313Reads

CHICAGO – The American Association of School Librarians (AASL) formally commends 313Reads, approving a resolution made by the Michigan Association of School Librarians (MASL), an AASL Chapter. AASL annually recognizes outstanding programs, events, and products nominated by AASL Chapters for their support of the school librarian profession and the learners the profession serves. The full list of 2024 commendations can be found on the AASL website.

313Reads is a coalition for literacy access, equity, and justice to support grade level reading. The foundations of their work reflect: “Literacy is access and opportunity. Literacy is equity and justice. Literacy is liberation.” In 2022, 313Reads distributed 6,306 books across Detroit communities. Books have been distributed to community centers, Boys & Girls Clubs of Michigan, doctor’s offices, libraries, schools, and homes. In addition to bringing literacy into the homes of families, the coalition advocates for state policy requiring school libraries and school librarians in every school.

"313Reads just delivered another 94,000 books to students and families in Detroit, Michigan,” said MASL President Carrie Betts. “They continue to excel at increasing access to literature and resources for families and students."

AASL President Becky Calzada added, “Our AASL Chapters have brought forth eighteen stellar commendations. These recognitions highlight the advocacy of intellectual freedom, access of inclusive literature, celebrates students' use of media and technology that incorporates the integration of AASL Standards and advances the understanding of school librarians as educators. The AASL Board of Directors is grateful for the keen eyes of our state chapter leaders for bringing these resolutions forward. Commendations acknowledge and expand awareness of the important work happening in many local communities in support of school libraries, school librarians and the learners they serve.”

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 American Association of School Librarians, www.aasl.org, a division of the American Library Association (ALA), empowers leaders to transform teaching and learning.