Mississippi Library Association

Mississippi Library Commission receives prestigious federal grant

The federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarded the Mississippi Library Commission (MLC) a $100,000 Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Grant to conduct an intensive, in-residence workshop for mid-level public library staff in Mississippi. Over the three year grant period, ninety (90) public library staff members will participate in MLC’s Librarianship 201 Institute. Participants will be selected through a competitive application process.

The first Institute will be held February 2-6, 2009 in Jackson and will be conducted in partnership with the Southeastern Library Network (SOLINET). The Institute will cover topics in public library advocacy, management, ethics, and technology. Nationally recognized scholars and practitioners of library science will share both theoretical and practical aspects of librarianship with participants. Participants will establish bonds that enhance librarianship in small and rural communities throughout the state.

According to Sharman Bridges Smith, Executive Director of the Library Commission, “Librarianship 201 is the next step in ‘growing our own.’ Mississippi has a rich heritage of public library service. Through Librarianship 201 and other continuing education programs for public library personnel provided by the agency for public library personnel, the future will be strong as well. We are pleased that IMLS recognized our efforts and plans for ensuring all Mississippians have access to quality public library services.”

First Lady Laura Bush announced the President’s multimillion dollar support of an initiative to help bolster the library profession in 2002. Since then, IMLS has helped fund the education of 3,220 master’s degree students, 186 doctoral students, 1,256 pre-professional students, and 26,186 continuing education students. In 2008, the program awarded $20 million to 31 of 90 applications received. To learn more about the program or IMLS, visit www.imls.gov.

For more information on the Librarianship 201 Institute or other Mississippi Library Commission programs and services, visit www.mlc.lib.ms.us or call 601-432-4111.

Submitted by
Jennifer Walker
Library Consultant
Mississippi Library Commission

Entry Filed under: News
Posted on: October 8th, 2008