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The Institute for Museum & Library Services has just awarded ULC a grant to continue the ULC Scholars program, “Librarians for America’s Neighborhoods.” We are delighted to lead the charge on this initiative, along with several ULC member libraries, to recruit the next public library professionals to the field and orient them to the diverse array of issues facing urban public libraries today.
From the perspective of directors leading large and complex urban public libraries, the need to recruit a diverse workforce with multi-cultural connections, broad flexible skill sets, and deep understanding of public libraries and local communities, is critical. This proposal seeks IMLS support for recruiting and providing unique support for the professional education of Masters level LIS students; students who will be the next generation of people shaping and delivering public library services.
This proposal engages the resources of ULC and 21 Partner Libraries in
It is our hope that at the end of three years, this IMLS investment will have supported over 115 scholars in 600 student terms to attend academic courses in potentially 30 institutions accredited for professional LIS Masters degrees.
In addition to academic scholarships, this project provides both local and national experiences that will expose ULC Scholars to diverse views on public libraries and community dynamics. In effect, we will bridge the gap between theories of library and information studies that students receive as part of their coursework and the practical realities of public library experiences in urban areas. Partner Libraries will augment ULC Scholars’ academic experiences with cross-departmental orientations, conversations with library and community leaders, “behind-the-scenes” views of budget and policy decisions, and coaching from peer professionals. ULC will add value to the scholars’ experiences by convening and building a national learning community of MLS students, selected faulty, and Partner Libraries. ULC Scholars will engage in national online conversations around topics of interest to public libraries and communities. They will have opportunities to take part in four audio conferences and one national conference that will expose them to professional ideas, conversations, and challenges that relate to public libraries.
In return for these unique professional experiences, ULC Scholars will be asked to contribute their ideas for reinventing public library services that meet 21st Century learning demands. ULC will create outlets for sharing the ideas of these new voices in the profession.
- Increase the number and diversity of professional librarians in 21 Partner Libraries
- Expand the scholars’ understanding of the public library, community dynamics, and external forces shaping public libraries, and expand their connections with national colleagues and library leaders
- Increase the partner libraries capacity for recruiting and educating a diverse workforce
- Provide the profession with fresh views on practice and service
- Improve understanding between practitioners and selected educators about the needs of MLS students.
If you have any questions or need further information please contact info@urbanlibraries.org. |
