Scholarships For Library And Information Science In Canada

Pursuing a career in Library and Information Science (LIS) offers diverse opportunities in academia, public service, and various industries. For students in Canada, numerous scholarships are available to support their educational journey in this field. Here’s an overview of notable scholarships for LIS students in Canada.

1. Canadian Library Association Scholarships

The Canadian Library Association (CLA) offers several scholarships for LIS students:

• CLA/Alan MacDonald Graduate Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to a student enrolled in a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program at an accredited Canadian university. It recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential.
• CLA/Edna M. Phillips Scholarship: Targeted at students demonstrating a commitment to children’s librarianship, this scholarship supports those intending to work in libraries serving young people.

2. Dalhousie University Scholarships

Dalhousie University’s School of Information Management offers various scholarships for its students:

• SIM Alumni Scholarship: This scholarship is funded by alumni of the School of Information Management and is awarded to students based on academic performance and financial need.
• Louisa C. O’Brien Scholarship: Named after a former Dalhousie librarian, this scholarship supports students who show a dedication to pursuing a career in academic librarianship.

3. University of Toronto Scholarships

The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information provides several scholarships for LIS students:

• Faculty of Information Scholarships: These include merit-based awards for students entering the Master of Information program. Criteria often include academic excellence, leadership, and contribution to the information field.
• iSchool Alumni Award: This award is given to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership within the iSchool community.

4. University of British Columbia Scholarships

The UBC School of Information offers multiple scholarships and awards:

• Dr. Alice E. Schmidt Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to a student in the Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) program who shows exceptional academic performance and a commitment to the profession.
• Irma & Arnold Pinkney Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship supports MLIS students who demonstrate financial need and academic merit.

5. Professional Associations and External Scholarships

Various professional associations and external organizations also offer scholarships for LIS students:

• Ontario Library Association (OLA) Scholarships: The OLA offers several scholarships for students enrolled in LIS programs in Ontario, recognizing academic excellence and leadership.
• Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA) Scholarships: The CFLA provides scholarships to support students who are committed to the future of librarianship in Canada.
• Society of American Archivists (SAA) Scholarships: Though primarily a U.S.-based organization, the SAA offers scholarships that are open to Canadian students studying archival science within LIS programs.

Application Tips

To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, consider the following tips:

• Maintain High Academic Standards: Most scholarships prioritize academic excellence. Keep your grades up and engage in research projects if possible.
• Get Involved: Participate in extracurricular activities related to library science. Volunteering at libraries or joining relevant student organizations can enhance your application.
• Build Strong Relationships: Develop connections with your professors and peers. Strong letters of recommendation can significantly bolster your application.
• Showcase Leadership and Commitment: Highlight your leadership roles and commitment to the LIS profession in your application essays and interviews.

Conclusion

Numerous scholarships are available to support students pursuing Library and Information Science in Canada. By researching and applying for these opportunities, students can alleviate financial burdens and focus on achieving their academic and professional goals in the dynamic field of LIS.