STAFF DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM

The Friends of the Libraries support the University of Minnesota Libraries in many ways, always aiming to help the Libraries realize their vision of providing intellectual leadership and extraordinary information experiences. A key component of an outstanding library is outstanding staff. Since 1996, the Friends have sponsored staff development grants, offering support for research, study, or conference attendance - experiences that will aid a staff person's professional development, which will also enrich programmatic and service development for the Libraries.

The Friends of the Libraries are delighted to announce the 2009 Staff Development Grant Program.

About the Grant

• In 2009, two $1,000 grants will be awarded.

• Purpose: To provide financial support for Libraries staff professional development. Possible activities for the grant include travel, study, research, and conference attendance. Former recipients of this grant are noted at the Libraries staff website. These examples are illustrative - the widest range of proposed activities is encouraged. The Friends welcome proposals demonstrating a significant opportunity for professional enrichment and development but which fall outside general funding opportunities from the Libraries. The proposed professional development activity must be completed by June 30, 2010.

• Eligibility: Any Libraries' staff member who works three-quarters time (75% appointment) or more in any of the following employment categories is eligible to apply for a grant: faculty, academic professional, civil service, or bargaining unit.

Application Process

• Proposal Letter: Prepare an application letter (two pages or less) addressed to Stephanie Van D'Elden, Chair, Friends of the Libraries Awards Committee. The application letter should answer these questions:

  • What do you propose to do?
  • How will the professional development activity benefit you?
  • How will it benefit the Libraries?
  • How do you propose to share what you will learn?
  • Will this award cover the cost of the activity? If not, please state the approximate cost of the activity and the source(s) of the additional funds.

• Recommendation: Obtain and attach a letter of recommendation from your supervisor endorsing your proposed activity.
  

• Application Deadline: Send the original and four copies of your application and letter of recommendation to Lanaya Stangret, Friends of the Libraries, 499 Wilson Library, by 12:00 noon on Wednesday, April 1, 2009. Fax and e-mail submissions will not be accepted, nor will late applications.

Notification

Selection and notification of the recipients will be made by Monday, April 20, 2009. The recipients will be honored at the Friends annual meeting on the evening of Tuesday, May 12, 2009. All recipients will be invited to attend as guests of the Friends.