Applications opened August 1, 2024 for the Louise Seaman Bechtel Fellowship and ALSC is inviting children’s librarians to to reflect on the research opportunities available via this chance to spend four-weeks reading and studying at the Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature of the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida, Gainesville.
The 2024 Fellow, Doris Gebel, a retired children’s librarian, and the former Head of Youth Services at the Northport-Eastport Public Library (NY), shares that “the Fellowship has led to some amazing opportunities.” Gebel is currently pursuing the topic of international literature to emphasize the global impact of the work of The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi and the influence of that work on subsequent youth literature. Based on her research, Gebel was invited to present a survey of the many editions of the Pinocchio story at the Baldwin Library at a symposium that was held in Florence, Italy. All presentations will be published in Italian and English later this year.
Gebel notes that, “As children’s librarians, many of us have a special interest in children’s literature. The Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature provides a unique opportunity to study the development of themes, characters, plot devices and publishing trends that are represented in literature for young people over time.”
When asked whether she had any advice for those working on identifying their topic of study Ms. Gebel shared that you should “think about an aspect of children’s literature that interests you or perhaps a question or topic that comes up in your library. Then try searching the Baldwin Library catalog as you consider a topic.”
To learn more about this exciting professional opportunity visit the ALSC Professional Awards and Grants page to see criteria and application requirements.
This post highlights the ALSC Competency : VII. Professionalism and Professional Development