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Kaleidoscope Program, The Association of Research Libraries (ARL)

Posted April 14, 2023

Description

The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) is accepting applications for the 2023–2025 cohort of the Kaleidoscope Program. The ARL Kaleidoscope Program is a two-year commitment that aims to prepare BIPOC graduate students for purposeful and consequential careers in research libraries and archives through enriched leadership development and community-building opportunities.

Benefits of the Kaleidoscope Program include:

  • Tuition support of up to US$10,000 over two years to defray the cost of MLIS education
  • Virtual educational sessions
  • Attendance at the ARL Annual Leadership Symposium
  • Attendance at an ARL member library site visit
  • Financial support of up to US$2,000 for professional development
  • A formal mentorship program

The Kaleidoscope Program is funded by ARL member institutions. The program was established in 2000 as the Initiative to Recruit a Diverse Workforce (IRDW) and was renamed Kaleidoscope in 2019.

Program Goal and Objectives

The Kaleidoscope Program aims to:

  • Create a scholars-centered community of BIPOC leaders in research libraries and archives
  • Support the persistence of scholars in memory and information graduate programs
  • Facilitate connections between scholars and emerging and established leaders in research libraries and archives
  • Prepare scholars to navigate post-degree professional settings
  • Provoke critical inquiry and action toward just and equitable research information environments

Applicant Criteria

Kaleidoscope Scholars must meet the following criteria:

  • Identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or a Person of Color
  • Be a resident of the US or Canada
  • Be accepted into a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA)
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a career in a research library or archive

To Apply

All applicants are required to submit the following materials by 11:59 p.m. Pacific daylight time on Monday, May 15, 2023 (requests for accommodations, questions, and concerns can be sent via email to [email protected]):

  • Online application form (requires Google account; program participation also requires a Google account; a free Google account may be created at https://www.google.com/account/about/)
  • Résumé
  • Undergraduate transcripts (unofficial or official) including last academic semester completed
  • Graduate transcripts (unofficial or official) including last academic semester completed OR copy of official letter of acceptance into a graduate-level program in library and information science (either at the time of application or before being accepted into the Kaleidoscope Program)
  • Two letters of recommendation (See application requirements for details.)

Informational Session

ARL is hosting an informational session on Tuesday, April 11, 1:00–2:00 p.m. (EDT), to share more about the Kaleidoscope Program and answer questions. A recording of the session will be posted. For Zoom details and more information about the program and the application process, visit ARL.org/kaleidoscope.

Opportunities for Current Students Opportunities for Students of Color Scholarship