March 28, 2024

Conable Conference Scholarship Applications Open

The Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF) offers an annual scholarship for library school students and new professionals to attend ALA's Annual Conference. The goal of the Gordon M. Conable Conference Scholarship is to advance two principles that Gordon held dear: intellectual freedom and mentoring.

The Conable Scholarship provides for conference registration, transportation, housing (six nights), and a $300 stipend for meals and other expenses.

The recipient will also receive a one-year membership to the Freedom to Read Foundation (FTRF). In return, the recipient will be expected to attend various Freedom to Read Foundation and other intellectual freedom meetings and programs at the conference, consult with a mentor, and present a report about their experiences and thoughts. Application deadline April 26, 2024.

The scholarship is available to students currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited library and information studies degree program or an AASL-recognized master's programs in school librarianship and new professionals (those who are three or fewer years removed from receiving an LIS degree).

Note: If the recipient is already registered for ALA's Annual Conference, they will have their conference fee refunded.

The conference scholarship winner will be expected to arrive on Wednesday and stay through Monday afternoon. 

The application requires a resume, two references, and an essay of up to 500 words describing your interest in intellectual freedom issues and how you will use your attendance at the ALA annual conference to further your interest in intellectual freedom during and after the conference.  Your resume should include your education, work history, and volunteer experience.

Submit an Application.