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 14, 2025
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.
This year the conference will be held in Philadelphia, PA. The scholarship winner will be expected to attend the Freedom to Read Foundation meeting on June 26 and stay through the afternoon of Monday, June 30 for the full ALA Annual Conference.
The application requires a resume including education, work history, and volunteer
Contact Joyce McIntosh at the Freedom to Read Foundation, jmcintosh@ala.org, with any questions.