There’s good news for anyone seeking a master’s degree in library science or school library media: the American Library Association (ALA) is providing scholarships worth over $300,000 to help students just like you! These scholarships can lessen the cost of graduate school, regardless of your interests in new media, public, children’s, or youth librarianship, federal librarianship, or library automation.
Here’s a structured overview of the ALA Scholarship Program:
When is the Application Deadline:
- March 1st each year.
Table of Contents
Tell Me About The Award:
- The American Library Association (ALA) provides over $300,000 annually for scholarships supporting master’s degrees in library and information science from ALA-accredited programs or school librarianship specialties.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Master’s degree programs in library and information science and school librarianship.
Type:
- Scholarships are awarded for graduate-level education.
Who can Apply for the ALA Scholarships?
- Applicants must have applied for admission to a formal program of library and information studies leading to a master’s degree.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to a career in librarianship, evaluated through the application materials, including references and the personal statement.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Generally open to U.S. and Canadian citizens; however, the LITA Christian Larew Memorial Scholarship has no residency restrictions, allowing non-U.S./Canadian citizens to apply.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Scholarships can be used for studies in any ALA-accredited institution offering relevant master’s degree programs.
How Many Awards?
- The ALA offers multiple scholarships, with specific numbers varying each year.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Awards can cover a significant portion of tuition and educational expenses, contributing to the advancement of future librarians and information professionals.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- The duration of the scholarship typically aligns with the academic year, contingent upon the recipient’s enrollment status.
How to Apply for the ALA Scholarships:
- Complete the online application, including a personal statement, and provide three professional references and official academic transcripts.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
- For more information, visit: https://www.ala.org/news/2024/09/ala-2025-scholarship-application-now-open
- https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/scholarships
