The MLA Diversity Scholarship Award, funded by the membership of MLA, offers candidates from under-represented groups the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) with financial support.

The goal of the scholarship is to recruit students from historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups into music librarianship by providing support for master’s-level LIS education. Black, indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) who have applied to or are enrolled at least part-time in an ALA-accredited Masters in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MSLS/MLS) program with a concentration, certificate, courses, or a career interest in music librarianship are eligible to apply for the MLA Diversity Scholarship Award.

The Award

There will be two awards presented for the 2024-2025 year. Each winner of the award will receive:

• A tuition stipend of $3,000.
• Career guidance provided by the MLA Career Advisory Service.
• Gratis student membership in MLA for one year.
• Gratis registration for the MLA annual conference.
• Committee recommendation for the MLA Kevin Freeman Travel Grant for possible travel support to attend an MLA Annual Meeting. Please note that the award winner must still apply for the Freeman award for consideration.
  

Application Requirements

To apply, submit:

• A personal statement (not to exceed 750 words) summarizing your musical background and interest in music librarianship as a career path.
• Curriculum vitae or Resume
• Three letters of recommendation (to be submitted alongside the rest of your application materials, or to be sent directly to the committee chair by references themselves). References should be contacts who can best speak to your strengths as a candidate for the scholarship, such as teaching faculty, supervisors, or other professional contacts. Note: the reference’s ability to give specific examples and evidence of your strengths and aptitude for this scholarship is much more important than their prestige.
• Proof of student status upon enrollment in an MLIS, MSLS or MLS program (For both current and incoming students: enrollment verification from your online student account, an email from a graduate advisor, or a copy of term bill/course enrollment for Fall 2024 is acceptable).
  

Send application materials to Ricky Caboverde, Chair of MLA Diversity Scholarship Award Committee. Applications received by August 31, 2024 will be given first consideration.

If you have any questions regarding application materials, this scholarship, eligibility or the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Chair!

Award Winners

2024: Blair Black and Joseph Sioui 

2023: Yee Wing Chan and Thi Lettner 

2022: Michelle Rivera and Jade Vaughan

2021: Mia Watts

2020: Hang Nguyen

2019: Ellen Ogihara

2018: Enrique (Ricky) Caboverde