The SALALM Scholarship has been established to encourage professional and leadership development in Latin American and Caribbean Studies academic librarianship. To be awarded biannually commencing in December 2011, the $1000 is for a master’s candidate in an archival studies or ALA-accredited library or information studies program.

Since its founding in 1956, the Seminar on the Acquisition of Latin American Library Materials, or SALALM, has provided the only national and international forum focused on Latin American studies research librarianship, library collections and services. The SALALM Scholarship award will include a one-year membership in the organization.

Who Should Apply:

Applicants able to demonstrate a strong interest in Latin America, the Caribbean or their diaspora, and who have career aspirations involving service to academic users seeking information about, or researching topics involving the Latin American or Caribbean region, are urged to apply.

Interest may be demonstrated through previous work, internships, undergraduate or graduate-level study, involvement through volunteer programs with governmental, non- governmental or private sector organizations, and research and publication on topics relevant to the area. Competency in one of the area’s major languages is highly important.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be master’s degree candidates in ALA- accredited programs in library and information science or in archival studies (with equivalent accreditation where applicable) in the United States or Canada. Applicants must have successfully completed at least one quarter or semester of study and recipients must be enrolled students at the time the award is made.

Selection Criteria:
•Knowledge of Latin America and the Caribbean
•Commitment to career in academic library and information science or related field
•Record of academic achievement
•Competency in one or more of the area’s languages

Application Materials:
•Completed application form Personal statement (500 word max.)
•Current résumé Letter of reference
•Unofficial transcript

Timeline:
•Deadline for applications: November 29, 2012
•Award to be announced: December 27, 2012
•Disbursement of scholarship: January 2013