If you’re pursuing a master’s degree in library science or school library media, great news: the American Library Association (ALA) is offering over $300,000 in scholarships to support students like you! Whether you’re interested in public, children’s, or youth librarianship, federal librarianship, new media, or library automation, these scholarships can help ease the financial burden of graduate school.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Enrolled in ALA-accredited master’s program in Library and Information Science |
| Meets ALA’s curriculum guidelines for CAEP (for school librarianship) | |
| Application Window | September 2024 – March 1, 2025 |
| Deadline | March 1, 2025 |
| Scholarship Amount | Over $300,000 |
| Fields of Interest | Public librarianship, children’s librarianship, youth librarianship, federal librarianship |
| New media, library automation | |
| Application Resource | ALA Scholarship page (for instructions and requirements) |
| American Association of School Libra |
Fact About The American Library Association (ALA)
1. Founding Fathers of Library Science
The ALA was founded in 1876 by 103 dedicated librarians, including Melvil Dewey, the inventor of the Dewey Decimal System!
2. Largest Library Organization in the World
With over 60,000 members, the ALA is the largest and most influential library organization globally!
3. Advocating for Free Speech
The ALA has been a vocal advocate for intellectual freedom and free speech since 1939, protecting readers’ rights to access information.
4. Banned Books Week
The ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom sponsors Banned Books Week, celebrating the freedom to read and highlighting censorship attempts.
5. Publishing Powerhouse
ALA publishes American Libraries magazine, Library Technology Reports, and over 200 books annually on library and information science topics.
6. Setting the Standard
The ALA develops and maintains standards for libraries, including cataloging and classification systems, ensuring consistency nationwide.
7. Library Support During Crisis
The ALA’s Disaster Relief Fund provides financial assistance to libraries affected by natural disasters, ensuring continued community support.
8. Diversity and Inclusion Champions
The ALA’s Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in libraries, serving diverse communities.
9. Cutting-Edge Tech
The ALA’s Library and Information Technology Association (LITA) drives innovation, exploring AI, virtual reality, and other emerging technologies.
10. Empowering Future Librarians
The ALA awards over $300,000 in scholarships annually to students pursuing library science degrees, shaping the next generation of library leaders.
Eligibility For ALA Scholarships 2024
To apply, you must be enrolled in a master’s level program in library and information science accredited by the ALA. If you’re pursuing school librarianship, the program must meet the ALA’s curriculum guidelines for the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Be sure to check out the guidelines and application requirements on the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) website.
Timeline For ALA Scholarships 2024
The application window is open annually from September 2024 to March 2025, and this year’s deadline is March 1, 2025. It’s a great opportunity to secure some financial support for your studies, but you’ll want to get your application in early!
How To Apply For ALA Scholarships 2024
Start by reviewing the application instructions and requirements on the ALA Scholarship page.