2011 Melcher Winner Fulfills Dreams

Education is expensive and increasing every year. I often weighed the pros and cons of continuing with my Masters. Did it make financial sense? Was it selfish of me to dedicate that much money towards my dreams? When I received the ALSC Melcher Scholarship it eased my fears and worries. This scholarship was a confirmation of the importance of education and of library services, especially to children. This scholarship was a boost to my hopes and dreams of higher education. I truly appreciate the ALSC Melcher Scholarship.

The first class at University of Arizona was a 7 day “library boot camp.” I live in rural Arizona and all of my college education so far has been through distance learning and online classes. The time spent down in Tucson was extremely fulfilling! Being able to talk, share and explore library principles, theories, and current library issues with other students who share my passion for libraries for 7 full days was like going to librarian heaven.

I currently work as a high school library manager and I have worked as a children’s librarian at my previous employer. I know that this practical experience is a strong foundation for my current education. Further enriching my education experience, I attended the Arizona Library Association conference in Tucson, AZ this past November. I attended different workshops, volunteered at the AzLA booth and attended the AzLA awards breakfast to receive the Louise A. Stephens Memorial Scholarship. Louise A. Stephens was a children’s librarian, library manager and had a strong commitment to libraries. She is a great example of commitment to libraries and youth services.

I know that the future of libraries is evolving but I believe that library services to children will always be a fundamental part of the library profession. I appreciate this chance to fulfill my dream so I can help others reach theirs.

***********************************************************

Today’s guest blog post comes from Donna Hanley, recipient of the 2011 Frederic G. Melcher Scholarship. She is currently the Library Manager at the Saint Johns High School Library in Saint Johns, Arizona. She’s also a graduate student in Library Science at the University of Arizona’s School of Information Resources and Library Science (SIRLS).

Each year ALSC gives away nearly $50k in scholarships to applicants interested in pursuing a career in children’s librarianship. For more information on ALSC Scholarships like the Frederic G. Melcher Scholarship or the Bound to Stay Bound Books Scholarship, please visit ALSC’s Scholarship page.