School Tours
Unlocking Imagination & Discovery: Elementary School Library Tour
Wednesday, October 15 | 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
During the elementary school tour, attendees will explore two school libraries designed to inspire curiosity and spark exploration. These welcoming spaces feature thoughtfully curated collections and interactive displays that bring stories to life. Students engage in hands-on learning with flexible spaces and community partnerships, creating an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a love of reading.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
Unleashing Learner Potential: High School Library Tour
Wednesday, October 15 | 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Get an exclusive look at two Exemplary Library Programs recognized for their innovation and impact on student success. A love of reading is fostered through diverse collections and engaging programming like book battles and lit boxes. These libraries are also equipped with state-of-the-art resources, including makerspaces, media rooms, and student-led programs. Discover how collaborative spaces and real-world initiatives like 3D printing and civic literacy prepare students to be tomorrow’s thinkers and leaders.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
Empowering Exploration & Creativity: Middle School Library Tour
Wednesday, October 15 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Join us for a tour of two dynamic middle school libraries that bring creativity, curiosity, and collaboration to the forefront. With cozy reading nooks and cutting-edge design labs, each space encourages students to explore a wide range of resources and dive into hands-on projects. From coding to crafting, these libraries provide an engaging, innovative environment where students thrive academically and creatively.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
Igniting Curiosity & Connection: Independent School Library Tour
Wednesday, October 15 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Take a tour of two school libraries that place diversity, creativity, and inclusivity at the core of their mission. These vibrant spaces provide students with opportunities to explore a wide range of resources, from interactive programs to game tournaments and mentorship opportunities. See how these libraries create a strong sense of community while fostering personal growth and academic success.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
Cultural Tours
Partners in Learning: Exploring St Louis Public Libraries
Thursday, October 16 | 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
This tour begins at the impressive new Clark Family Branch of the St. Louis County Library. Opened in 2024, this 74,000-square-foot, two-story branch features standout educational and creative spaces. Highlights include the Stephany and Richard Kniep Children’s Space, designed for interactive learning with a playhouse, fire engine, magnetic gear wall, and reading nooks—ideal for early literacy ideas. The Unity Foundation Teen Space offers a high-tech lab with a 3D printer, recording studio, green screen wall, and Adobe-equipped Macs—perfect for sparking teen engagement.
Next, attendees will visit one of the most beautiful libraries in the country—St. Louis Public Library’s Central Library in downtown St. Louis. Designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and opened in 1912, this architectural gem underwent a stunning restoration to meet the needs of the 21st century while preserving its historic grandeur. Highlights include dedicated Children’s and Teen Libraries, a makerspace with a recording room, extensive genealogy and local history collections, and a café.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
Teaching Through Memory: A Visit to the Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum
Thursday, October 16 | 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Take part in a guided tour at the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum. As the only Holocaust Museum in the region, this Museum is uniquely suited to engage visitors in the history of the Holocaust, told through the voices and experiences of those who lived it - including local Holocaust survivors. During this tour, you will visit the permanent Holocaust exhibition, which covers the entire chronology of the Holocaust while giving visitors a grounding in the history of antisemitism and Judaism. Tour participants will also have the opportunity to converse with Museum staff to get a behind-the-scenes look at how engage with and share this difficult history with students. The St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum is an engaging, multi-media museum experience that will leave visitors both informed and inspired.
An additional registration fee of $45 is required in advance of the event.
To add a tour to your registration: In your AASL National Conference Confirmation email you will find a "CLICK HERE" link under the "Registration Online Access" section. This link will take you to your online dashboard. The left-hand menu includes a link to "Ticketed Events," click and then select "View/Add a Ticketed Event" button. Select the tour(s) you would like to add. Click the "Save Changes" button at the bottom of the page, select your payment type, and click "Make Payment" at the bottom of the page. You will receive a confirmation with your additional ticket information.