Rooted in Excellence

A LIVING FRAMEWORK FOR SCHOOL LIBRARIANSHIP

Image of an AASL handout titled "Rooted in Excellence" shows the elements of the standards thougjh the lifecycle of a tree where the Common Beliefs are the Roots and the Competencies are the leaves, and everything else in between.

The Rooted in Excellence one-pager offers a fresh visual overview of the National School Library Standards system, showing how the Common Beliefs, professional roles, and AASL Standards framework components work together to support dynamic school library programs and empower every learner.

Using the metaphor of a living tree, the infographic highlights:

  • Common Beliefs as the roots that ground the profession
  • Professional Roles as the trunk that supports school librarian practice
  • Shared Foundations and Domains as the structure for teaching, learning, and leadership
  • Competencies and Alignments as the visible outcomes that help learners grow and thrive

Use this one-pager to support professional learning in school districts, workshops and conferences, and school librarian preparation programs. Whether introducing the Standards for the first time or deepening understanding, the infographic provides an accessible and engaging way to explore the AASL Standards as a living ecosystem grounded in shared values and practice.

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