The American Library Association (ALA) will be selecting the presidents of its three youth divisions in the coming weeks, with voting opening tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. Central Time and closing at 11:59 p.m. on April 26, 2013. School Library Journal asked each of the candidates why they want to be president of their respective division, and what they would bring to the position. Here is what they had to say. American Association of School Librarians - AASL Ann Dutton Ewbank Clinical Associate Professor Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, Arizona State University "It is an honor and privilege to be asked to serve as AASL President-elect. I want to be AASL President-elect because I believe in the power of school libraries and school librarians. There is a growing body of evidence that demonstrates the added value of quality school library programs. This evidence solidifies the need for a library staffed by a certified librarian in every school, and we must communicate our message effectively to all stakeholders—parents, administrators, and policy makers. "The most important aspect of our association is our relationship with these stakeholders. Through communication, collaboration, and consensus, I will strengthen our association so that we are well positioned to promote the importance of our profession and libraries in general. My leadership style is inclusive and I value each member’s active participation. As your President-elect, I pledge to represent each and every member of AASL to my utmost ability." Terri Kirk Librarian Reidland High School, Paducah, KY "I am running for AASL president elect because I feel that school librarians across the nation need a strong voice in the ALA and in the public. My experience as a member of the ALA Executive Board, ALA Council, and a practicing school librarian is a benefit to our members since I have contacts across all groups in ALA and I know how the association works. My 'ramp up' time as an officer in AASL will be minimal. "School libraries and librarians is a target focus for ALA including resources from the Washington Office and I will work closely with ALA leadership and staff to increase the visibility of school librarians. As a practicing high school librarian, I am familiar with the issues that face us because I live with them every day! Even when staff and budgets are cut, school libraries remain strong and dedicated to their students." Association for Library Service to Children –ALSC Rhonda K. Puntney Gould Public Library Consultant, Gould Library Consulting, Tacoma, WA "Most of my library career has been focused on advocating for all children and the dedicated youth services librarians who share their love of books and reading with their communities. Literacy is the cornerstone of all learning and our kids deserve the support of all educational stakeholders. This is especially evident now during the current economic downturn. ALSC is uniquely positioned to provide learning opportunities and experiences for its membership that facilitate and enhance the library experience for children. "I bring to my candidacy for ALSC experience in leadership positions as president of the Wisconsin Library Association and president of the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), an enthusiasm for all aspects of library service for children and their families, and a commitment to my friends and colleagues who provide these services.  I recently left my job as a youth services and special needs consultant in Wisconsin and moved to Tacoma, WA, where I am starting my own consulting business." Ellen M. Riordan Chief of Planning, Programs and Partnerships Enoch Pratt Free Library "I am honored to have the opportunity to lead ALSC in this exciting time of change. My work in ALSC, most recently on the Board of Directors, has prepared me for this new step in leadership. I have a deep understanding of how our organization works and its value to members and our customers. "The changes in the economy and technology have increased the need for skilled passionate library professionals that specialize in understanding how children and their families become literate, informed citizens and readers—that concept goes hand in hand. The traditional and innovative services we provide to children and families essential. Getting out the message that librarians that work with children and families can be partners in resolving important issues in communities is critical to our continued success." Young Adult Library Services Association – YALSA Sharon Rawlins Youth Services Consultant for Lifelong Learning NJ State Library "I loved working with teens when I worked in public libraries but now that I'm a youth services consultant, I no longer work directly with them. The next best thing is consulting with all the YA librarians in public and school libraries that work with teens. I consider it an honor and privilege to run for President. If elected, I will work tirelessly to continue to advocate for useful and innovative services and programming for teens and for the librarians that work so hard for them. "I am committed to: —Encouraging more cultural and functional diversity within YALSA's members and resources. —Establishing new awards like the Pura Belpré for older teen readers. —Supporting YALSA members in libraries of all sizes, in rural and urban areas. —Pursuing and fostering beneficial partnerships. —Developing more strategies to help instill a love of reading in teens, especially for those who think reading isn't 'cool.'" Chris Shoemaker Young Adult Programming Specialist New York Public Library  "Pulling from a  large membership base with a diverse skill set, YALSA provides a perfect lens to frame the larger discussion of youth service trends and adolescent developmental needs. I want to help YALSA build the strategic partnerships necessary to showcase the knowledge and skills of our members, and highlight the importance of teen services at every level. These vital connections will ensure both YALSA and our members continue to be heard and help us build the tools and services we need to enhance our skill set and provide relevant services to 21st century teens. "My experience with both my current position and the YALSA Board have allowed me to refine my leadership skills, whether it's advocating for teen services, encouraging participation, or providing professional development opportunities. I am a strong advocate for all aspects of teen services, and look forward to building the tool and services our members need to grow and succeed."