Mary V. Gaver Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by American Library Association
Overview
This annual $3,000 scholarship supports students enrolled in an ALA‑accredited Master’s program who are specializing in youth services. The award is open to U.S. and Canadian citizens or permanent residents and was established in 2001 to commemorate a former ALA president and Rutgers University professor who made significant contributions to library youth services.
Key dates and frequency
- Frequency: Annual
- Application window: September 1 through March 1 each year
- Next deadline: March 1, 2026
How to apply
Apply using the single online application managed by the ALA Scholarship Program (this one application covers all ALA scholarships). Be sure to submit all required materials by the March 1 deadline for consideration.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- Be a U.S. or Canadian citizen, or a U.S. or Canadian permanent resident.
- Be enrolled in an ALA‑accredited Master’s (MLS/MLIS/MIS) program with a specialization in youth services.
- Have completed no more than 12 semester hours toward the MLS/MLIS/MIS prior to June 1 of the award year.
- Provide a personal statement.
- Accept responsibility for ensuring that all components of the application (online form, references, transcripts, and any required mailed materials) are submitted and received by the deadline.
Required application materials
- Completed online application (includes the personal statement).
- Three references submitted via the official online reference form only (references sent by other means will not be accepted). You will identify and invite referees within the online application.
- Official academic transcripts for the institution(s) where you earned your bachelor’s degree. Transcripts must be official (sealed) copies and may be sent directly from the degree‑granting institution or mailed in a sealed envelope as received from the institution.
Mailing address for sealed transcripts or other required mailed documents
ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse
225 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1300
Chicago, IL 60601
Notes
- Check the specific scholarship’s requirements in case additional documents must be mailed.
- All required items must be received by the ALA Scholarship Clearinghouse by March 1 to be considered.