ALA. (2022). [AASL Logo]. https://www.ala.org/aasl/
American Association of School Librarians (AASL)
The Association of School Librarians (AASL) is one of the most important resources for school librarians. They have supported the school librarian’s profession for over 65 years. According to the website it has over 7,000 members and encourages school librarians to transform teaching and learning. The AASL has a strategic plan for the future of the profession as it continues to grow and adapt to the current needs of schools. They hold town hall meeting and conferences that benefit the members of the school librarian community. This organization will help me prepare and continue my learning throughout my career with numerous types of professional development.
Edutopia Georgia Lucas Educational Foundation
Edutopia is a great resource for teachers and librarians. As a school librarian this resource can be used to find the best ways to teach using graphic novels, help with math homework, setting up classes in social and emotional learning, as well as aiding students with disabilities and sensory needs. This organization provides much needed information on many topics that help teachers and librarians enhance 21st century skills in their students.
Library Juice Academy (LJA) Online Professional Development for Librarians
https://libraryjuiceacademy.com/
Library Juice Academy (LJA) offers many professional development courses and allows one to develop new skills central to the profession. They offer an extensive list of courses that will help me hone my skills and keep up to date on trends arising in the library professions.
Library Journal (LJ)
https://www.libraryjournal.com/
Library Journal (LJ) offers many research articles about public and academic libraries. Some of the articles that appealed to me deal with helping patrons with genealogical research, growing gardens in libraries, and anti-racism programs. This journal will help me stay educated on numerous library issues and ways to better serve the community.
Litwin Books and Library Juice Press
issues in the library field. According to the website they specialize in practical issues of librarianship from a critical perspective. They offer articles on many of the future trends of librarianship such as race and ethnic quality, social justice, gender and sexuality, cataloguing, and many more. This will be a key website to see what others in the library field are thinking, researching, and writing about.
Public Library Association (PLA)
The Public Library Association (PLA) includes a tremendous amount of data about public libraries and keeps tracks of current trends in the field. This PLA will be a great place to evaluate data related to public libraries should I choose to work in one. Using data to drive change can be an invaluable and accurate way to make sure that libraries are meeting the wants and needs of the public. This organization, with over 10,000 members will be an important resource for networking, volunteer opportunities, and even mentoring.
School Library Journal (SLJ)
The School Library Journal offers numerous resources on a large variety of subjects influencing school libraries and young people. There is a myriad of topics such as book lists, articles on censorship, book reviews, and numerous other subjects. This website caters to the school librarian and will be a mainstay in my toolbox if I choose to work as a school librarian or a children’s librarian in a public library.
Virginia Association of School Librarians (VAASL)
The Virginia Association of School Librarians (VAASL) is an invaluable resource for future school librarians. It provides professional development, connections to other organizations, and leadership opportunities. Through this organization I can continue to represent the core values of librarianship and gain ideas on how to encourage the efficient use of technology and prepare students to become live long learners. The VAASL also encourages one to stay updated on current Virginia legislation that relates to schools and library programs.
YA and Kids Book Central
https://twitter.com/yabookscentral
This website and its blog will make a great tool for finding quick reviews about new, popular, young adult, and children’s books. School librarians often are asked for advice about which books a student might like or what a book is about. While I will read many of these books myself it would be impossible to read them all. This website can give me insight to which books may or may not be appropriate for certain students. I can also get a quick glimpse into the what the book is about and if other young readers liked or disliked the book.