ASCLA Century Scholarship

Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA), the Library Service to Special Populations Section (LSSPS) and the Library Service to People with Visual or Physical Disabilities Forum established the ASCLA Century Scholarship in 2000.

The scholarship fulfills ALA’s mission to cultivate a field of library professionals that more accurately reflects the diversity of the communities and populations it serves. The one-time award of $2,500 funds services or accommodations not provided by the university that will enable the student to successfully complete a course of study for a Master's or Doctorate in Library Science.

The endowed ASCLA Century Scholarship continues to thrive because of the financial support of generous donors both inside and outside of ASCLA. You can make a contribution to the scholarship endowment in the following ways:

• Online: Visit the giveALA page, login (or create a login if you’re a first-time visitor) and follow the instructions. The Century Scholarship is listed under the “Divisions and Offices” fund category.
• Via mail or fax: Download the donation form and designate gift to “ASCLA Century Scholarship”. Checks should be made payable to the American Library Association with “Century Scholarship” written in the memo field. Mail the form and check to ALA Development—department address is on the form.

Questions about donations to support ASCLA or ALA? Contact the ALA Development Office at development@ala.org or 312-280-325.

Applying for the ASCLA Century Scholarship

You must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

• Acceptance to an ALA-accredited LIS Master’s or doctoral program.
• Medical documentation of disability or disabilities, services, or accommodations and/or services the applicant needs to succeed in his/her studies.
• U.S. or Canadian citizenship.

There are no minimum semester hours requirements for a continuing student. Candidates will be considered for their academic excellence, financial needs, leadership, and professional goals. The winner will receive the scholarship during ASCLA President's Program at ALA’s Annual Conference.

To apply for the scholarship:

• Complete the online American Library Association Scholarship Application, including letters of recommendation, transcripts and personal statement.
• Send appropriate medical documentation of disability or disabilities, services, or accommodations and/or services the applicant needs to succeed in his/her studies to Liz Markel, Marketing Specialist, ASCLA, ATTN: Century Scholarship, 50 E. Huron Street, Chicago, IL  60611.

All application materials must be received by March 1.

Questions about the scholarship application process should be directed to the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse at 800-545-2433, ext. 2433, or scholarships@ala.org. Questions about the ASCLA Century Scholarship should be directed to the scholarship committee chairperson.

Learn more about ALA Scholarships.

Recipients