Library and information science students with access needs are encouraged to apply for the 2010 ASCLA Century Scholarship, a one-time $2,500 award funding necessary services or accommodations to enable the winner to complete a master’s or doctoral program in the field.
The scholarship is an initiative of ASCLA, the Library Service to Special Populations Section (LSSPS) of ASCLA and the Library Service to People with Visual or Physical Disabilities Forum and was established in 2000 through the generosity of an anonymous donor. It fulfills ALA’s mission to cultivate a field of library professionals that more accurately reflects the diversity of the communities and populations it serves. All LIS graduate students—including veterans—with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must have been accepted to an ALA-accredited graduate program, be a U.S. or Canadian citizen and be able to provide documentation of his or her access need (“disability”). Interested students should complete the online scholarship application, including submission of a personal statement, letters of reference and transcripts. Questions about the online application process can be directed to the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at scholarships@ala.org or 1(800) 545-2433 ext. 4279. Appropriate medical documentation should be sent to Liz Markel, ASCLA Marketing Specialist at ASCLA, ATTN: Century Scholarship, 50 E. Huron Street, Chicago, IL, 60611. All scholarship application materials including medical documentation must be received by March 1, and only complete applications will be considered.
The 2010 scholarship will be presented to the winner as a part of ASCLA events at the ALA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., June 24-29, 2010. More information about the scholarship and other ASCLA awards is available at the ASCLA awards webpage.
The ASCLA Century Scholarship continues to thrive because of the financial support of generous donors both inside and outside of ASCLA. Contributions to the scholarship fund can be made online at the giveALA page—find the scholarship under “Divisions and Offices.” Questions should be directed to the ALA Development Office at development@ala.org or (312) 280-3259.