Masters of Library Science Scholarships
Masters of Library Science Application Form
Masters of Library Science Recommendation Form
The Friends Scholarship Fund was established to enhance the capability of the Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) to meet current and future needs for librarians in order to deliver high quality service to the citizens of Fairfax County. Several MLS scholarships are awarded each year, dependent on the availability of funds. The awards are for $3,000 plus a special Edwin S. Clay, III award in the amount of $3,500. They are merit-based scholarships for individuals pursuing a Masters degree in Library Science at an American Library Association (ALA) accredited school. You are eligible to apply if you live, work, volunteer or attend school within Fairfax County, Virginia, and you are enrolled or have been accepted for enrollment by an ALA accredited library school. Please consider applying for a scholarship.
The Scholarship Committee will review applications that are postmarked or received by April 15. The application should be sent to the address below.
Scholarships will be awarded on a merit basis without regard to race, gender, religion, age, physical disability, or sexual orientation. The Scholarship Committee considers the merit of each application carefully and factors evaluated will include:
Evidence of commitment to a career in librarianship, preferably within the FCPL System,
Potential for outstanding achievement in the library profession,
Academic excellence, and
Extent of involvement with the FCPL.
Each applicant will be notified of the Scholarship Committee’s decision within four (4) weeks of the closing date.
For further information, please write or call 703-324-8300.
Fairfax Library Foundation
Friends Scholarship Fund
Attn: MLS Scholarships
12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 329
Fairfax, VA 22035
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much will be awarded?
$3,000 for each scholarship awarded and $3,500 for the special Edwin S. Clay, III award.
2. How many scholarships will be awarded?
The number of awards will depend upon the availability of funds. As a general practice, however, a total of four (4) awards are granted each year.
The Foundation is not required to select a recipient if none of the submissions merit the award in a given year.
3. What eligibility criteria will be considered?
Individuals must live, work, volunteer or attend school within Fairfax County.
Enrollment or acceptance for enrollment in an ALA accredited Library Science Program.
The application must be received or postmarked by April 15.
4. What proof of Library Science enrollment is required?
Evidence of current enrollment in or possession of a letter of acceptance to an American Library Association (ALA) accredited school for a Masters degree in Library Science.
5. What factors will be considered in evaluating the application?
Priority will be given to individuals involved with the Fairfax County Public Library System, such as Friends group members, volunteers and employees.
Individual merit, not need-based
A short essay expressing interest in a Library Science career will be critical to the selection process.
6. What is the payment policy?
Payment will be made directly to the school for crediting to your account.
A transcript must be furnished to the Friends Scholarship Fund upon completion of the term.
7. If I receive a scholarship, may I apply for another?
Yes, you may apply for additional scholarships.
To view the forms below, you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. To obtain a free Reader, follow this link:
Masters of Library Science Application
Form
Masters of Library Science Recommendation
Form
Continuing Education | Baccalaureate | 2009 Awardees