This national award encourages library staff to develop their professional learning further and to contribute positively to their school community. Nominees must show their advocacy initiatives and activities within their school community and wider networks, and their engagement with professional learning.
HOW TO NOMINATE
An individual may nominate themselves, or principals, professional colleagues and members of the school community are also encouraged to nominate their library staff members.
ASLA membership is not required.
Contact details for two referees, one of whom must be your school principal are to be provided.
Nominations open Monday 2 November 2026 and must be submitted by midday Friday 5 February 2027.
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible you must be a resident of Australia and be working in a school.
The award is open to library staff, teachers and principals.
If a principal is nominated, one referee must be a suitable replacement for the principal, such as a deputy principal, library manager or other school leader.
PRIZES
The recipient of this award will receive:
- Complimentary 12 month Personal Professional Membership to ASLA
- A $1,000 professional learning grant
- A trophy and certificate, presented at the ASLA AGM held during the Biennial Conference 2027, or by alternate arrangement.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Submissions require the following:
- Personal details.
- Contact information and names for two referees (one must be your school principal, unless you are the principal).
- A statement of achievement that addresses What the panel are looks for
- Supporting evidence, for example newsletter articles, participation in events and promotion of programs.
- Two detailed testimonials describing how you have advocated for the library and what difference you have made to the school community, naming specific initiatives and programs.
- The winner is required to submit a report to the ASLA Board detailing the professional learning experiences this award made possible.
What the panel looks for
Your nomination is assessed on the following areas. Focus on results that others can see and measure.
- Advocacy within your school: show sustained advocacy for the library that has produced measurable improvements to staffing, funding, policy, visibility or strategic positioning. Promoting the library in leadership forums and winning improved support, resourcing or recognition all count.
- Advocacy in the wider community: show that you contribute to and influence audiences beyond your school at regional, state or national level, raising the profile and impact of school libraries.
- Professional development and networks: show active professional learning that you apply to advocate for the library, plus contributions to the profession such as presentations, publications, mentoring or committee service.
Full awards terms and conditions
Nominate for this prestigious award here!
Questions? Please email awards.team@asla.org.au