ARL’s Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce is pleased to announce the availability of new funds to recruit students from underrepresented groups with educational backgrounds in all subjects to MLS programs. In January 2007, ARL announced the availability of funds from an Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) grant to support graduate study in library and information science for students from underrepresented groups with educational backgrounds in natural and applied sciences or information technology. The additional funds will augment the funds awarded by IMLS and increase the size of the 2007–09 class of the Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce.
The Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce offers a stipend of up to $10,000 over two years to MLS students from underrepresented groups who are interested in careers in research libraries. The initiative also offers a mentoring relationship with an experienced librarian, a leadership training curriculum, and the opportunity to work in an ARL library upon graduation. The stipend may be coupled with other financial aid to provide an extra incentive for completing library school. The initiative is funded by IMLS and voluntary contributions from 52 ARL member libraries. This funding reflects a commitment to create a diverse research library community that will better meet the new challenges of global competition and changing demographics.
Program Goals
Attract MLS students from underrepresented groups to careers in research libraries.
Strengthen participants’ leadership skills via a Leadership Institute held in conjunction with the American Library Association Midwinter Meeting.
Develop a network of mentors who will guide and nurture the career development of the participants.
Applications
For more information contact:
Jerome Offord Jr.
Director of Diversity Initiatives
Association of Research Libraries
21 Dupont Circle NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 296-2296
jerome@arl.org
