Program Benefits and Expectations

Librarians for Diverse Communities

Serra and its partners will ensure that (1) applicants are aware of what is expected of them and (2) scholarship recipients agree to comply with these expectations. Prospective applicants will receive clearly written information explaining program activities and expectations. The Screening Committee will pick scholarship finalists who have committed to and are able to meet project expectations.

Description of Participant Expectations

Serra and Serra Partners will provide:

• Scholarships for MLIS coursework covering tuition, fees and course materials($5200/yr)
• Technology stipends for laptop computer and technology($1000)
• Mentoring program
• Workshops on topics such as working with underserved populations, leadership, community assessment, multiculturalism
• Career Day/Career Fair
• Tours of participating libraries
• Professional networking opportunities
• Professional development stipends to attend professional conferences
• Paid release time to attend workshops and conferences
• Local internships
• Peer networking

Student Commitment:

• Complete MLIS coursework with grade B or better
• Meet with assigned mentor on an ongoing basis
• Participate in project workshops
• Participate in Career Fair
• Participate in one professional conference per year
• Participate in surveys and focus groups for evaluation purposes
• Assist in promoting the project to colleagues and fellow students
• Commit to serving as a librarian following graduation
• Maintain contact with Serra for evaluation purposes for at least 5 years following program
• Agree to respond to annual online job surveys for 5 years following the program and provide information regarding where they are working and position they hold

For more information please contact Michelle Donez at [email protected] or by calling her at (619) 206-2790.