Conable Conference Scholarship Applications Open
The Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) offers an annual scholarship for library school students and new professionals to attend ALA’s Annual Conference. The goal of the Gordon M. Conable Conference Scholarship is to advance two principles that Gordon held dear: intellectual freedom and mentoring.
The Conable Scholarship provides for conference registration, transportation, housing (six nights), and a $300 stipend for meals and other expenses.
The recipient will also receive a one-year membership in the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF). In return, the recipient will be expected to attend various FTRF and other intellectual freedom meetings and programs at conference, consult with a mentor/board member, and present a report about their experiences and thoughts. Application deadline May 5, 2023.
The scholarship is available to students currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited library and information studies degree program or an AASL-recognized master’s programs in school librarianship and new professionals (those who are three or fewer years removed from receiving an LIS degree).
Note: If the recipient is already registered for ALA’s Annual Conference, they will have their conference fee refunded.
The conference scholarship winner will be expected to arrive on Wednesday and stay through Monday afternoon, June 21-26, 2023. The conference is being held in Chicago, IL.
The application requires a resume, two references, and an essay of up to 500 words describing your interest in intellectual freedom issues and how you will use your attendance at an ALA conference to further your interest in intellectual freedom during and after the conference. Your resume should include your education, work history, and volunteer experience.