Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS)

Spectrum Scholarship Program announces Sponsorships for the 2024-2025 Scholarship Cohort

AJAIN — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 17:19:13 +0000

Spectrum Scholarship Program announces Sponsorships for the 2024-2025 Scholarship Cohort

CHICAGO - The 91��ý's (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services awarded Spectrum Scholarships to 70 exceptional students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies in 2024. Due to generous donations from sponsors, 91��ý groups, and community members, 91��ý has awarded more than 1,600 Spectrum Scholarships since 1997.

The Spectrum program funds scholarships through its endowment and the generous contributions of individuals and organizations whose donations support named scholarships in the Spectrum Family of Funds. For 2024-2025, scholarships have been awarded in honor of the following supporters: Leo Albert, the Calloway family, Louise Giles, William R. Gordon, Satia Marshall Orange, Miriam Tuliao, and Dr. Betty J. Turock.

The 2024-2025 Endowment Scholars are as follows:

Kizuwanda Raines, Clarion University of Pennsylvania (Leo Albert Scholar)
Bethany Hill, University of Tennessee (Calloway Family Scholar)
Elizabeth Tibebu, University of Maryland (Louise Giles Scholar)
Alayna Sofia Jasso, Catholic University of America (William R. Gordon Scholar)
Varinthorn Punakananda Nakkeow, San Jose State University (Satia Marshall Orange Scholar)
Nyakundi James Nyambane, Drexel University (Satia Marshall Orange Scholar)
Bryn Shaffer, University of British Columbia (Miriam Tuliao Scholar)
Euncho Ko, University of Alberta (Dr. Betty J. Turock Scholar)

ProQuest, part of Clarivate, continues its generous support of the Spectrum Scholarship Program. Since 2001, ProQuest, part of Clarivate, has funded more than 200 Spectrum Scholars through sponsorship of the Scholarship Bash and now through their direct support of eight scholarships a year including one dedicated in memory of Ron Clowney, a former ProQuest executive. This year’s ProQuest, part of Clarivate Scholars are:

Sandra Martinez, University of Washington
Amaobi Kenechi Otiji, Rutgers University
Kaylee Danielle Paul, Simmons University
Ina Marie Samuel, San Jose State University
Jennie Margaret To, University of Washington
Daniel Vesurai, Valdosta State University
Lia Warner, San Jose State University
Phoebe Yip, San Jose State University

Elsevier is sponsoring two Spectrum Scholars and is a new sponsor of the Spectrum Scholarship Program as of 2022. This year’s Elsevier scholars are:

Sarah Dababneh, University of Michigan
Indira Nauth, San Jose State University

The Medical Library Association & National Library of Medicine (MLA/NLM) support two scholarships annually. The MLA/NLM Spectrum Scholarships support students with an interest in the field of medical or health sciences librarianship. This year’s MLA/NLM scholars are:

Karla Barreiro, San Jose State University
Sarah A. Meihui Bernstein, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The Northern California & Nevada Medical Library Group (NCNMLG) is sponsoring a 2024 Spectrum Scholarship to support a student interested in a career in health sciences librarianship. This year’s NCNMLG scholar is:

Amy Lim, University of Alberta

The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) established the ALSC Spectrum Scholarship through funding from the Frederic G. Melcher Endowment in 2010. Three ALSC Spectrum Scholars interested in library service to children are designated annually. Ellen Fader, past-president of ALSC has generously donated to the Spectrum Scholarship Program. Her support has provided follow-up grants for Spectrum Scholar alumni to accelerate their path toward graduation and an annual Spectrum Scholarship in her name since 2014. This year’s ALSC scholars are:

Ana Lizeth Balen, San Jose State University
Reyna Campuzano Scarfo, San Jose State University
Kate Uesugi, San Jose State University
Vanessa Lizette Rodrigson, San Jose State University

The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) is supporting two 2024 Spectrum Scholars pursuing a career in academic and research libraries. This year’s ACRL scholars are:

Maria Guadalupe Partida, University of Texas - Austin
Grace J. Park, University of British Columbia

Thanks to the generosity of sponsor OCLC, Core, a division of the 91��ý, is supporting a 2024 Spectrum Scholar with a demonstrated interest in library technology. OCLC has supported a LITA/Core scholarship since 1991. This year’s OCLC Core scholar is:

Armaan Singh Kalkat, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

The Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) annually funds two Spectrum Scholars pursuing a career in young adult librarianship or secondary school librarianship. This year’s YALSA scholars are:

Tamika Lynn Lax, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis
Ian Anthony Wheeler, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The Rainbow Round Table (RRT) has committed to sponsoring a 2024 Spectrum Scholar who expresses commitment to serving the information needs of the LGBTQIA+ professional library community, and the LGBTQIA+ information and access needs of individuals at large. This year’s RRT scholar is:

De'Ivyion Emonne Drew, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The Spectrum Scholarship Program is additionally grateful to Library Associations across the country which offer support to Spectrum Scholars with additional grant funding, registration to conferences, inclusion in publications, and much more.

The Illinois Library Association (ILA) has committed to the support of Spectrum Scholars in Illinois since 2003 through the establishment of the Sylvia Murphy Williams Award. The award offers registration to the ILA conference of the scholar’s year, recognition at 91��ý Annual Conference, and article feature in an ILA publication. The 2024-2025 ILA Scholars are:

Citlalli Cardenas, Dominican University
Bethany Hill, University of Tennessee
Leslie Lopez, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Katherine Mendoza-Gonzalez, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Anita Sharma, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Hilda Vásquez Medina, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Daniel Vesurai, Valdosta State University

The New England Library Association (NELA) offers a supplemental grant of up to $1,000 for Spectrum Scholars residing in New England. This year’s NELA scholar is:

Kaylee Danielle Paul, Simmons University
Kai Miyabayashi McGinn, Simmons University
Annabelle Hiu Ying Ho, Valdosta State University
Leia Carman Barrow, Simmons University
Mateo Leon Caballero, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
Nebraska Chatham, Simmons University

The Spectrum Scholarship Program is additional grateful to the eight ODLOS affiliate organizations which offer complimentary membership to their organization for Spectrum Scholars for the duration of their scholarship year. Due to ongoing support from the National Association of Librarians of Color (NALCo), and Outreach affiliate groups, Spectrum Scholars are offered a year of membership to the American Indian Library Association (AILA), Asian Pacific American Librarians Association (AP91��ý), Black Caucus of the 91��ý (BC91��ý), Chinese American Librarians Association (C91��ý), REFORMA: The National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking, Association for Rural & Small Libraries, Inc. (ARSL), and Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services (ABOS).

To learn more about the Spectrum Scholarship Program, please contact 91��ý’s Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services at spectrum@ala.org or visit www.ala.org/spectrum. The application period for 2024 Spectrum Scholarships is open until March 1, 2024.

About the 91��ý
The 91��ý (91��ý) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the 91��ý has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org. 

AJAIN Fri, 12/13/2024 - 11:19

Awards (Scholarships & Grants)

Contact:

Anjali Jain

Program Officer, Community Engagement

ODLOS

spectrum@ala.org

Scholar Spotlight: Cindy Hohl (2016) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee

AJAIN — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:13:41 +0000

Scholar Spotlight: Cindy Hohl (2016) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee AJAIN Fri, 12/06/2024 - 13:13

The Spectrum Scholarship Program actively recruits and provides scholarships to American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern and North African, and/or Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander students to assist them with obtaining a graduate degree and leadership positions within the profession and 91��ý. Spectrum Scholarship Alumni are part of what makes this program successful -- we are thrilled to highlight Cindy Hohl (2016 Scholar), director of policy analysis and operational support at Kansas City (Mo.) Public Library, and 91��ý President, to talk about the Scholarship, as well as current work. This interview was conducted via email with Spectrum Advisory members, Kay P Maye, and Ramon Garcia in November, 2024.

What area(s) of librarianship have you worked in thus far?

I started my library career at the Topeka and Shawnee County Library and moved over to the Kansas City Public Library where I have worked since 2017. In my work as 91��ý President, I have the pleasure of meeting library staff working in various library types all over the world.

What are some current projects that you're really excited about right now?

We are creating a toolkit to share information about Missing, Murdered, Indigenous Women and People to bring awareness to this issue. Thousands of people go missing and the national database does not include everyone that is missing. We need to create awareness about this health information matter and correct the data disparity. Ultimately, we need to share information so that more people can understand and hopefully get involved to help us find more people before it is too late. This is important for Americans so that everyone is safe in society.

What has the Spectrum community provided you with in the years since you've graduated library school?

As the first Spectrum Scholar elected to 91��ý President, it is my duty to make sure that I am not the last. Our Spectrum community is everything to me as a library leader and I strive to help colleagues on their journeys. Our Spectrum family helps me feel like this is where I belong in the field, in community with my esteemed colleagues.

How do you carry that sense of camaraderie and connection forward to others in the LIS profession?

In traditional Dakota beliefs, we are all related, and I carry that knowledge with me to help build sustainable relationships. It is my goal to make sure that everyone feels seen, and I strive to create a spirit of belonging for all no matter where I go.

Working in libraries can sometimes take us far from home. What are some favorite regional foods that you look forward to getting if you ever return for visits? Alternatively, what are some favorite dishes that you discovered along the way?

I enjoy cooking for my family and we enjoy frybread, soup, and wojapi.

Intersections

Spectrum Scholarship Program

KTHORNTON — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 15:59:25 +0000

Spectrum Scholarship Program

KTHORNTON Tue, 12/03/2024 - 09:59

About the Spectrum Scholarship Program

Through the Spectrum Scholarship Program, the 91��ý affirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion by seeking the broadest participation of new generations of racially and ethnically diverse librarians to position 91��ý to provide leadership in the transformation of libraries and library services.

Applications for the program open on September 1st, and close March 1st of each year. Common questions about the scholarship and more information about the application process can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Donate to the Spectrum Scholarship Fund

Contribute to 91��ý's national diversity and recruitment effort designed to address the specific issue of under-representation of critically needed ethnic librarians.

Make a difference

Spectrum News

Spectrum Scholarship Program announces Sponsorships for the 2024-2025 Scholarship Cohort

The 91��ý's (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services awarded Spectrum Scholarships to 70 exceptional MLIS in 2024, thanks to generous donations from sponsors, 91��ý groups, and community members.

Scholar Spotlight: Cindy Hohl (2016) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee

91��ý announces 2024-2025 Spectrum Scholars

The 91��ý's (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services awarded 2023 Spectrum Scholarships to 70 exceptional students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies.

Scholar Spotlight: Luisa Leija (2020) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee

Scholar Spotlight: Jerrell Jones (2021) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee

Scholar Spotlight: Iliana Burgos (2019) in Conversation with the Spectrum Advisory Committee

Tuliao Swims Again to Support Spectrum

Miriam Tuliao has announced that she will swim Grimaldo's Mile, a one mile open water event in New York City, on July 9th to raise funds for 91��ý’s Spectrum Scholarship Program. This is Tuliao's 15th consecutive year organizing an annual fundraiser for Spectrum.

New 91��ý endowment honoring Satia Marshall Orange to benefit Spectrum Scholarship Program

From 1997 to 2009, Satia Marshall Orange guided what is now the 91��ý’s (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS), working on behalf of underserved populations and promoting diversity within the field of librarianship. Now, on the occasion of her 80th birthday, her work is being honored with the establishment of the Satia Marshall Orange Spectrum Scholarship Endowment Fund.

91��ý announces Spectrum Doctoral Fellowship Program and informational session

CHICAGO - The 91��ý (91��ý) is pleased to announce the return of the Spectrum Doctoral Fellowship Program. Building off the success of the Spectrum Scholarship Program which provides one-year academic funding for LIS students who identify as American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern or Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander, the Spectrum Doctoral Fellowship Program seeks to recruit diverse LIS faculty members.

91��ý Awards Spectrum Scholarships for 2021

CHICAGO — Today, the 91��ý's (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services awarded the 2021 Spectrum Scholarships to 60 exceptional students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies.

Tuliao swims again to raise funds for Spectrum and honor BC91��ý President Burns-Simpson

Q&A: April M. Hathcock (2012), Dr. Antonia Olivas (2002), Lalitha Nataraj (2005), Sofia Leung, and Jorge López-McKnight of Knowledge Justice are interviewed by Mimosa Shah (2020)

This interview was conducted via email with Sofia Leung and Jorge López-McKnight, co-editors of the recently published Knowledge Justice: Disrupting Library and Information Studies through

2021 91��ý Elections: Spectrum Leaders

The Spectrum Advisory Committee has compiled this list of Spectrum Scholars standing for office in the 2021 91��ý Elections. We encourage you to support the

Candidate Q&A: Interviews with candidates for 91��ý President 2022-2023

The Spectrum Advisory Committee compiled topics from the Spectrum community and created three questions to pose to the candidates for the 2022-2023 91��ý Presidency: Stacey

Q&A with Javier Barrios, interviewed by Tommy Vinh Bui (2015)

Javier Barrios is a librarian for the Writers Guild Library in Los Angeles, California. The Writers Guild Library is the world’s only library and archive

Strategies for serving the underserved

RCHRISTOPHER — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:03:32 +0000

Strategies for serving the underserved

CHICAGO — Underserved populations frequently do not have access to a library—or they may even be unaware that they have an information need. How can we as a profession effectively reach them? Geared to both graduate and undergraduate LIS students as well as current library workers, “Serving the Underserved: Strategies for Inclusive Community Engagement,” published by 91��ý Neal-Schuman, focuses on needs and services outside the library walls. Noted authorities such as Paul T. Jaeger, Ana Ndumu, Helen Chou, Bharat Mehra, Jeanie Austin, Emily Jacobson, Julie Hersberger, Carrie Scott Banks, Barbara Klipper, JJ Pionke, Nicole Dalmer, and Vanessa Kitzie outline fresh approaches to how libraries can think about and effectively reach underserved populations. Edited by Catharine Bomhold, this text provides contextual information on historically underserved populations as defined by the 91��ý Office for Diversity, Outreach, and Literacy Services (ODLOS), explores information use behaviors for these groups, and presents examples of successful strategies and programs. Readers will:

understand the history, background, and demographics of 91��ý-identified underserved population groups, which include refugees and immigrants, rural or isolated communities, historically disadvantaged racial or ethnic groups, LGBTQAI+ teens, people with mental health challenges, and those experiencing homelessness;
find ideas from real-world practice for effectively serving those population groups in their community;
learn about concepts such as Reijo Savolainen's everyday life information seeking (ELIS) and Elfreda Chatman's small world lives and life in the round, theories that consider how a person's circumstances affect their information needs, searching habits, and information authorities;
see why misconceptions, stereotypes, and implicit biases about underserved populations can act as barriers to people accessing the information they need;
be introduced to the concept of the “community information liaison,” a librarian who addresses information-seeking of their community outside of the library walls; and
have information about support organizations and additional resources for further learning.

Examination copies are available for instructors who are interested in adopting this title for course use.

Dr. Bomhold is an associate professor of Library and Information Science at the University of Southern Mississippi. She has taught graduate classes in LIS for over twenty years and has taught a class on serving marginalized patrons for 12 years. She is the coauthor of “Twice Upon a Time: A Guide to Fractured, Altered, and Retold Folk and Fairy Tales” and “Build It, Make It, Do It, Play It!: Subject Access to the Best How-To Guides for Children and Teens,” as well as numerous scholarly articles on information seeking.

91��ý Store purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library and information professionals worldwide. 91��ý Editions | Neal-Schuman publishes resources used by library and information professionals, scholars, students, and educators to improve programs and services, build on best practices, enhance pedagogy, share research, develop leadership, and promote advocacy. 91��ý authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a variety of print and electronic formats. Contact 91��ý Editions | Neal-Schuman at editionsmarketing@ala.org.

RCHRISTOPHER Wed, 11/13/2024 - 09:03

Diversity

Merchandise

Professional Resources

Publications

Contact:

Rob Christopher

Marketing Coordinator

91��ý

91��ý Publishing & Media

rchristopher@ala.org

312-280-5052

New Grant Supports the Creation of 500 Adult and Family Literacy Support Centers in Libraries Nationwide

RAGARCIA — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:07:14 +0000

New Grant Supports the Creation of 500 Adult and Family Literacy Support Centers in Libraries Nationwide

Award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services will help libraries boost literacy skills in communities nationwide

Washington, D.C. – September 19, 2024 – The 91��ý, with members of the Adult Literacy and Learning Impact Network (ALL IN), has received a National Leadership Grants Award for over $400,000 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to design adult and family literacy support centers for libraries nationwide.

An estimated 54% of adults in the United States lack proficiency in foundational literacy, including reading, numeracy and digital skills. Young readers are struggling as well, with 64% of our nation’s fourth-graders reading below grade level. Literacy is directly connected to better health outcomes, reductions in recidivism for returning citizens, and better language and learning outcomes for children whose parents and caregivers have higher literacy. However, access to literacy skills and services remains a pervasive challenge across the country.

“Libraries are culturally and strategically positioned to close the literacy gap in this country. We have the data that informs our work and we understand the barriers ahead – but most importantly, we know the impact of leaning in as a champion toward these efforts,” said Kevin Strowder, Director, Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services for the 91��ý. “The innovative collective we’ve established through ALL IN and key library systems, with essential support from IMLS, prepares us to enhance the blueprint for addressing the multiple literacy crisis in our communities.”

Through this new initiative, 91��ý and its partners from ALL IN will collaborate with the Charleston County Public Library, the Chicago Public Library and the Delaware Library Consortium to codesign a suite of resources and training materials to help library professionals nationwide support literacy building in their local communities. Resources will include a guidebook to build librarian and library staff capacity to meet diverse adult and family literacy needs.

ALL IN is a collective impact initiative that brings together national thought leaders from the adult literacy field and beyond to transform adult and family literacy for millions of Americans. Members of the collaborative, including the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, National Center for Families Learning, ProLiteracy and World Education, will partner with the 91��ý on this initiative.

For 35 years, NCFL has formed dedicated partnerships with libraries across the country as key community institutions that provide critical access points for literacy acquisition and family learning. Libraries provide vital spaces and services that enable conversation, connection, and community-building for children and families. This IMLS grant provides an invaluable opportunity for a collective of national nonprofits to elevate the important role that libraries have in supporting much-needed adult education and family literacy resources. Felicia Cumings-Smith, National Center for Families Learning.

In addition to ALL IN’s deep expertise in adult and family literacy, three local library systems will bring an invaluable, community-focused perspective to the development of these resources.

“Collaborations like this are essential in improving our community’s literacy and quality of life. Our public library is a trusted source, and we are relied upon to meet our community’s evolving needs,” said Angela Craig, Executive Director of Charleston County Public Library. “These trainings and resources better position our system to directly support our families and their ability to live, work, and play.”

"At Chicago Public Library, literacy is at the heart of everything we do," said Commissioner Chris Brown. "This grant allows us to amplify our efforts, collaborate with literacy champions, and make a real difference in the lives of Chicago families. It’s a fantastic opportunity to empower our communities and celebrate the joy of learning together."

”Delaware Libraries and the Delaware Literacy Alliance are honored to participate and excited to share our progress in supporting literacy across the lifespan, enhancing it with guidance from national experts in the field of adult literacy,” said Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian of Delaware.

The resources developed over the course of this two-year project will ultimately be made available to libraries nationwide, improving literacy services for hundreds of thousands of adults and families.

About the 91��ý

The 91��ý (91��ý) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the 91��ý has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.

About ALL IN: The Adult Literacy and Learning Impact Network is a collective impact initiative formed by national thought leaders in the adult learning field and beyond. Convened by the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy and generously supported by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, ALL IN is charged with carrying out the goals of the National Action Plan for Adult Literacy, a multisector, multiyear initiative designed to drive inclusive, collective action to increase adult literacy nationwide. To learn more, visit www.allinliteracy.org.

RAGARCIA Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:07

Awards (Scholarships & Grants)

Contact:

Lauren Sproull

lauren@barbarabush.org

91��ý invites applicants for $3.5 million in grants as part of third round of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities

HARATA — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 14:29:07 +0000

91��ý invites applicants for $3.5 million in grants as part of third round of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities

CHICAGO — The 91��ý (91��ý) invites applications from small and rural libraries for the third round of funding of the Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC): Accessible Small and Rural Communities grant. The initiative will offer 3.5 million in grants to small and rural libraries to increase the accessibility of facilities, services and programs to better serve people with disabilities.

In February 2024, 91��ý announced it received an additional $10 million dollars in support of the LTC: Accessible Small and Rural Communities initiative. A substantial portion of the funding – $7 million – will be distributed in grants of $10,000 and $20,000 to small and rural libraries.

Library workers may now apply online for funding from September 11, 2024, to December 11, 2024, at ala.org/LTCAccess. Up to 300 libraries will be awarded in this application period. Previous awardees from round one and/or two are eligible to apply. Note that prioritization will be given to applicants not previously awarded.

Interested applicants can register for a pre-application webinar on October 10, 2024 at 12:00 pm CST.

In March 2024, 91��ý announced 310 libraries selected for round two funding, bringing the total number of funded libraries to 465, representing 46 U.S. states and the Northern Mariana Islands. View the full list of grantees awarded.

Libraries selected for round three will receive $10,000 or $20,000 to support costs related to their community engagement project; virtual training to assist project directors in developing their community engagement, facilitation, and disability service skills; a suite of online resources developed to support local programs; and technical and project support from the 91��ý Public Programs Office throughout the grant term.

Libraries chosen to participate in LTC: Accessible Small and Rural Communities will first conduct community input-gathering sessions to assure that their work aligns with local disability community needs. Libraries will be required to identify the primary audience they are hoping to reach (e.g., older adults with mobility disabilities, children with autism, Deaf community members) and facilitate a community conversation with the impacted patron group to guide improvement of the library’s services. Grantees will then use the grant funds to create services or improve their facilities based on the needs identified by their audience.

Applicants are advised to review the full project guidelines and look through application resources including successful application examples from previous rounds.

The opportunity is open to libraries serving small and rural communities in the U.S. and U.S. territories. To be eligible, a library must be located in an area that’s more than, or equal to, five miles from an urbanized area and with a population of 25,000 or less, in keeping with Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) definitions of small and rural libraries.

Since 2014, 91��ý has distributed Libraries Transforming Communities funding to foster community engagement skills among library workers and support need-driven projects. Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is part of 91��ý’s longtime commitment to preparing library workers for the expanding role of libraries. The initiative is offered in partnership with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL). It is supported by a private donor.

About the 91��ý

The 91��ý (91��ý) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the 91��ý has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.

About the 91��ý Public Programs Office

The 91��ý Public Programs Office empowers libraries to create vibrant hubs of learning, conversation and connection in communities of all types. Learn more at www.ala.org/ppo.

About the Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services

The 91��ý Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services supports library and information science workers in creating responsible and all-inclusive spaces that serve and represent the entire community. Learn more at www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/diversity.

About the Association for Rural & Small Libraries

ARSL builds strong communities through advocacy, professional development, and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries. As the premier organization representing rural and small libraries, ARSL recognizes the uniqueness of this constituency and is committed to providing an environment that encourages service excellence within our community of practice.

HARATA Tue, 09/17/2024 - 09:29

Awards

Contact:

Hannah Arata

Communications Manager

91��ý

Public Programs Office

harata@ala.org

ODLOS Seeks Proposals for Library as Literacy Centers Initiative

JCARMICHAEL — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 19:59:46 +0000

ODLOS Seeks Proposals for Library as Literacy Centers Initiative JCARMICHAEL Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:59

The 91��ý Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services is seeking proposals for its Library as Literacy Centers initiative, a multi-year project aimed at transforming libraries into key literacy hubs. This initiative will create actionable guidelines and templates to enhance library engagement with adult, family, and community literacy services. It involves assessing national literacy needs, providing funding to support literacy centers in eight key libraries, and sharing lessons learned to boost library-based literacy efforts. The selected consultant will collaborate with 91��ý to identify regions with high literacy needs, establish grant-supported partnerships, and evaluate the initiative's impact. Proposals are due by September 16, 2024.

For more information, view the full Request for Proposal (PDF) or contact Assistant Director of Literacy and Continuing Education Aubrey Huff at ahuff@ala.org.

Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS)

91��ý announces 2024-2025 Spectrum Scholars

RAGARCIA — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 15:52:32 +0000

91��ý announces 2024-2025 Spectrum Scholars

CHICAGO — The 91��ý's (91��ý) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services awarded 2024 Spectrum Scholarships to 70 exceptional students pursuing graduate degrees in library and information studies. Since 1997, 91��ý has awarded more than 1,600 Spectrum Scholarships. In the most recent application cycle, the Spectrum Scholarship Program received four times as many applications as there were available scholarships, and the majority of this year’s applicants were deemed highly fundable. A prestigious committee of jurors selected this year’s Spectrum Scholars based on their commitment to community building, leadership potential, and planned contributions to making social justice part of everybody's everyday work in LIS.

The 2024-2025 Spectrum Scholars are:

Alia Suad al-Ghabra, San Jose State University

Akua Serwaa Amponsah, Pratt Institute

Mikayla Aviles, Louisiana State University

Deleon MW (Wilson) Awill, Louisiana State University

Ana Lizeth Balen, San Jose State University

Louis Kelly Curtis Banks IV, Simmons University

Karla Barreiro, San Jose State University

Leia Carman Barrow, Simmons University

Sarah A. Meihui Bernstein, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Charmaine Branch, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Shanika Nicole Brown, University of North Carolina - Greensboro

Mateo Leon Caballero, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Reyna Campuzano Scarfo, San Jose State University

Citlalli Cardenas, Dominican University

Guadalupe Castillo, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Nebraska Chatham, Simmons University

Sarah Dababneh, University of Michigan

De'Ivyion Emonne Drew, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Rachel Erskine, Emporia State University

Maricela Garcia Serrano, San Jose State University

Lupita Gonzalez, University of Oklahoma

Amy Guerrero, University of Maryland

Tyler Aidan Hernandez, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Jasmarie Hernandez-Canuelas, University of Puerto Rico

Giselle Herrera, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Bethany Hill, University of Tennessee

Annabelle Hiu Ying Ho, Valdosta State University

Alayna Sofia Jasso, Catholic University of America

Gabriela Jasso, San Jose State University

Armaan Singh Kalkat, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Euncho Ko, University of Alberta

Tamika Lynn Lax, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis

Maryan Ali Liban, Kent State University

Amy Lim, University of Alberta

Leslie Lopez, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Diana Iridian Manriquez-Rivera, San Jose State University

Ana Laura Martinez, San Jose State University

Sandra Martinez, University of Washington

Melissa McCall, University of Washington

Kai Miyabayashi McGinn, Simmons University

Katherine Mendoza Gonzalez, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Vanessa Mondragon, Valdosta State University

Aliyah Muhammad, San Jose State University

Kathia Perez-Enriquez, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Varinthorn Punakananda Nakkeow, San Jose State University

Indira Nauth, San Jose State University

Nyakundi James Nyambane, Drexel University

Dalia Ortiz Pon, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Amaobi Kenechi Otiji, Rutgers University

Erica Owan, University of Washington

Grace J. Park, University of British Columbia

Maria Guadalupe Partida, University of Texas - Austin

Kaylee Danielle Paul, Simmons University

Kizuwanda Raines, Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Vanessa Lizette Rodrigson, San Jose State University

Ina Marie Samuel, San Jose State University

Isabella Marie Sanchez, University of Wisconsin - Madison

Bryn Shaffer, University of British Columbia

Anita Sharma, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Michelle Sosa, San Jose State University

Emily Chen Taina, San Jose State University

Elizabeth Tibebu, University of Maryland

Jennie Margaret To, University of Washington

Kate Uesugi, San Jose State University

Hilda Vazquez Medina, University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Daniel Vesurai, Valdosta State University

Grace Villanueva, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Lia Warner, San Jose State University

Ian Anthony Wheeler, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Phoebe Yip, San Jose State University

The Spectrum program funds scholarships through its endowment and the generous contributions of individuals and organizations whose donations support named scholarships in the Spectrum Family of Funds. For 2024–2025, scholarships have been awarded in honor of the following supporters: Leo Albert, the Calloway family, Louise Giles, William R. Gordon, Satia Marshall Orange, Miriam Tuliao, and Dr. Betty J. Turock.

Scholarships have also been awarded from sponsoring organizations including ProQuest, Part of Clarivate; OCLC (OCLC/Core Scholar); Northern California & Nevada Medical Library Group; National Library of Medicine; the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL); the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC); Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA); and the Rainbow Round Table (RRT) of the 91��ý.

91��ý offers thanks to the 2024 Spectrum Scholarship Jury for their work:

Nia Lam – Co-Chair (Media Studies Librarian at University of Washington Bothell & Cascadia College Library ), Alicia Zuniga – Co-Chair (Public Health & Science Librarian at California State University, Sacramento), Saegan Anderson, Megha Bamola (Youth and Family Outreach Specialist at Oak Park Public Library), Bradley Bibbs (Adult Services Librarian at Aurora Public Library District), Monica Boyer (Senior Manager of Children’s Services at Aurora Public Library District Library), Emma N. De Vera (State Library Programs Specialist at Minnesota State Library Services), CJ Garcia (Research and Instruction Librarian at A.T. Still University), Meera Garud (Instructor and School Library Coordinator at University of Hawaii at Manoa), Christy Hogan (Collection Development Librarian at University of Alabama at Birmingham), Jasmine Kirby (Assistant Librarian at the University of Utah), Bradley Kuykendall (Floater Branch Manager at Dayton Metro Library), Anthony Martinez (Student at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), Ida Teresa Martinez (Science Librarian at Wayne State University), Angelica Mejia (Librarian at Carlsbad City Library) Margaret Puentes, Anjelica T. Rufus-Barnes – Lead Juror (Reference Librarian at Prospect Heights Public Library District), Conrrado Saldivar (Outreach and Development Librarian at Wyoming State Library), Joy Shioshita - Lead Juror (Former Supervising Librarian at Berkeley Public Library), Isabel Soto-Luna (Business Librarian at University of Nebraska Omaha), Julia Stone (Open Scholarship Librarian at Portland State University), Jasmine C. Sykes-Kunk (Head of Research Services at John Hay Library, Brown University),

Through the Spectrum Scholarship Program, 91��ý advances racial equity by connecting new generations of racially and ethnically diverse librarians with a network committed to mutual support, advancing one another’s leadership, and making social justice part of everybody's everyday work.

RAGARCIA Thu, 08/01/2024 - 10:52

Awards (Scholarships & Grants)

Public Awareness

Contact:

Anjali Jain

Program Officer, Community Engagement

Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS)

ajain@ala.org

Social Responsibilities Round Table highlights programming for Annual Conference

HPEARSON — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:57:57 +0000

Social Responsibilities Round Table highlights programming for Annual Conference

CHICAGO – The Social Responsibilities Round Table (SRRT) is pleased to share upcoming programming this summer.

At 91��ý’s Annual Conference in San Diego, SRRT will convene session called “Combatting Voter Suppression in Your Library which will be a discussion about how librarians and libraries can combat voter suppression in an age of rampant mis- and disinformation Saturday, June 29 from 2:30-3:30 pm PDT. Following Annual, SRRT’s next Afternoon of Social Justice will be held on July 31, 2024, with more details to come.

SRRT has long been known for exploring issues and promoting conversations that propel the professioto think critically about local and global concerns. Our programming committee reflects that spirit by hosting events that call people in and bring diverse perspectives to bear on timely issues.

In 2023, SRRT held three virtual events. On July 13, 2023, the round table hosted a book discussion on Matthew Desmond’s “Poverty, by America” that included facilitated group learning circles.

On August 18, 2023, the Afternoon of Social Justice session featured speakers who shared a feminist perspective on the wars in Ukraine and Sudan and religious fundamentalism in Iran; a discussion about how libraries can become more culturally and physically equitable, diverse, and inclusive spaces to those with disabilities; and a screening and moderated discussion of the documentary film, Boycott.

On November 15, 2023, SRRT convened a panel, “Intellectual Freedom, Social Responsibility, and Praxis in Librarianship and Education,” which included a K-12 school librarian, public librarian, and university professor and focused on the intensified battles around book bans, censorship, public and school library funding, Critical Race Theory, African American Studies pedagogy, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

This year, SRRT hosted a monthly Current World Events Discussion Series for Library Staff & Community Members to raise awareness of and provide resources related to critical social, political, and economic issues and build media and information literacy

In March 2024, SRRT convened the two-day virtual summit, Abolitionist Visions and Intersections: Centering Human Relationships and Building Institutional Connections with Social Justice. The 15 sessions featured speakers who brought diverse perspectives and lived experiences to intersectional issues and provocative ideas. Sessions touched on information access and censorship in carceral settings, creative arts programming in prisons, archival stewardship of incarcerated persons’ records, inclusive library design, and innovative public library programming to serve vulnerable and reentry populations. The event also included two film screenings.

The Programming Committee strives to broaden our programming and identity’s reach by appealing to new and different audiences and promoting cross-sector conversations and interdisciplinary connections. Rachel Rosekind and Derek Wilmott serve as Programming Committee Co-Chairs. They may be contacted at:

Rachel Rosekind: rosekindness@gmail.com
Derek Wilmott: Robert.Wilmott@utoledo.edu

About

The Social Responsibilities Round TableSRRT is a Roundtable within the 91��ý. It works to make 91��ý more democratic and to establish progressive priorities not only for the Association, but also for the entire profession. Concern for human and economic rights was an important element in the founding of SRRT and remains an urgent concern today. SRRT believes that libraries and librarians must recognize and help solve social problems and inequities in order to carry out their mandate to work for the common good and bolster democracy.

To support SRRT programming and future learnings, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Social Responsibilities Round Table general fund or a specific SRRT project. The donation pathway can be found here.

HPEARSON Fri, 06/07/2024 - 10:57

Annual Conference

Diversity

Event

Contact:

Hillary Pearson

Program Manager, Accessibility Services

91��ý

Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach

hpearson@ala.org

CSKBART 55th Anniversary

JLEDESMA — Tue, 14 May 2024 22:25:41 +0000

CSKBART 55th Anniversary

Coretta Scott King Roundtable

JLEDESMA Tue, 05/14/2024 - 17:25

2024 marks the 55th anniversary of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Round Table. During the past 55 years, these awards celebrate the talent, creativity, and hard work of many authors and illustrators that showcase the black youth experience. Recently, we celebrated the 2024 CSKBART author and illustrator winners at the 91��ý Conference in San Diego, CA. For the full list of winners, please follow this link.

As we continue to celebrate these talented authors and illustrators, use the hashtag #CSKBART55 on social media, share your favorite moments from past Coretta Scott King Book Awards breakfasts, simply share a CSKBART title that you cherish. Let us know what this award means to you as a library worker, educator, reader, writer, or artist.

Archived materials about the CSKBART 55th Anniversary Celebration are archived here.

Diversity | Equity | Inclusion

Coretta Scott King Book Awards Roundtable (CSKBART)

Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS)

Face Sheet PDF

(.pdf, 139.64 KB)

Press Release Template PDF

(.pdf, 106.18 KB)

Press Release Template Word Doc

(.doc, 30.5 KB)

Public Service Announcements Template PDF

(.pdf, 65.67 KB)

Public Service Announcements Template Word Document

(.doc, 35.5 KB)

Talking Points PDF

(.pdf, 139.18 KB)

For any questions or comments related to the 55th Anniversary or upcoming CSKBART programs, please contact the team at diversity@ala.org.

The Coretta Scott King Book Awards winner, honor, and John Steptoe Award for New Talent seals are property of the 91��ý and cannot be used in any form or reproduced without permission of the 91��ý Office of Rights and Permissions.