Shirley Olofson Memorial Award Application

Application deadline: December 16, 2022

The Shirley Olofson Memorial Award is presented annually in honor of Shirley Olofson, a well-respected former NMRT President, who died during her term in office. The award, which is intended to help defray costs to attend the ALA Annual Conference, will be presented in the form of a check for $1,000 during the 2023 Annual Conference in Chicago, IL. The winner will be chosen in February 2023. All applicants will be notified by March 2023.

Requirements

Applicants must be members of ALA and NMRT, participate actively in the library profession, show promise or activity in the area of professional development, have valid financial need, and have not attended more than five ALA annual conferences.

Instructions

Fill out the application form. Include a current resume that lists educational background and degrees; library positions you've held; activity in ALA, NMRT, or other ALA groups; activity in other library associations; and participation in scholarly activity.

Write a short essay or paragraph that explains the reasons you are applying for this award, including a short statement addressing your financial need (no more than 1000 words). Please specify what professional development expenses are funded by your employer (e.g. registration, travel, lodging, and meals, etc.) and what expenses you pay on your own.

Applicants will be notified of incomplete applications. Please contact Committee Chair, Michelle K. Mitchell with questions: michellekrismitch@gmail.com.