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Call for Proposals: ALA Diversity Research Grant

Posted March 20, 2019

The American Library Association (ALA) Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services seeks proposals for the Diversity Research Grant program. Applications may address any diversity-related topic which addresses critical gaps in the knowledge of diversity, equity and outreach issues within library and information science. 

The Diversity Research Grant consists of a one-time $2,500 award for original research. A jury of ALA members will evaluate proposals and select up to three awards. Grant recipients will be announced ahead of the 2019 ALA Annual Conference. Researchers are invited to present interim findings at the News You Can Use Diversity Research Grant Update held each ALA Midwinter Meeting and are asked to publish findings in a publication of their choosing within one year of completing their project.

Proposals are currently being accepted for one year research projects that will be undertaken July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. Grants should not be sought for work leading toward the completion of a degree, thesis or dissertation.

A complete proposal must include the following:

  • Cover letter,
  • One-page vita for each of the researchers involved (including ALA membership number, the Principal Investigator should hold ALA membership)
  • Concise abstract of the project
  • Description of the project detailing the justification and needs for the research project, research objectives, expected outcomes and benefits
  • Budget plan and timeline on the provided template.

Proposals are due by midnight Pacific time on April 15, 2019. 

For examples of past projects and a complete list of criteria and proposal instructions, please visit: www.ala.org/research/larks/diversity. 

Attendees at the ALA Midwinter Meeting can join past and presenter researchers on Sunday, Jan. 27 for a discussion group focused on proposal-writing tips and funding opportunities. The Diversity Research News You Can Use session on Saturday, Jan. 26 will include updates from currently funded research projects.  

For more information or to inquire about possible research topics, please email [email protected] or call (800) 545-2433 ext. 5048.