91´«Ã½

The 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) has selected Evan Delano of Northampton, Massachusetts as the 2020 David H. Clift Scholarship recipient.

The David H. Clift Scholarship was named for a former director of the 91´«Ã½. The $3,000 scholarship is awarded to a person pursuing a master's degree in library and information studies.

Delano decided to pursue a career in librarianship following community unrest caused by police shootings. He commented that he was “inspired when he learned that the Ferguson Public Library offered special programming and tutoring to children and gave the community a safe place to process its grief and outrage.” It was then that he “realized that public librarians not only help people find and use information, but they also create spaces that respond to the specific needs of their communities.”

Currently, Delano works as a library assistant at the East Longmeadow Public Library (Mass.), and has received praise for his service to library patrons. One reference said that Delano “has an amazing work ethic. He is patient, kind and goes above and beyond when providing patron services.” Yet another reference commented that “the library patrons adore him. He is the most requested staff member at the service desk and has even won the hearts of our teens.”

Once he becomes a librarian, Delano hopes to “prioritize projects and practices that center on equity.” His goal is to remain committed to expanding library access for historically underserved community members. His commitment has not gone unnoticed. When speaking of Delano, one reference stated that he “conceived an idea, wrote and submitted a plan for, and gained approval to start the first young adult LGBTQ book group at the library.” Another reference commented that Delano is ‘passionate about his work and truly cares about the library’s success. He is a thinker and always presents fresh ideas to implement in the library. He is a leader who excels at almost everything he does. I think he will be an excellent addition to the library profession.”

Delano will attend Simmons University in Boston, Mass.

For information on the 91´«Ã½ Scholarship program, visit our .

The 91´«Ã½ manages the 91´«Ã½ Scholarship Clearinghouse.

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