ILF Scholarship Opportunities

The Indiana Library Federation supports library education and professional growth through a variety of scholarship opportunities. Awards vary each year based on fund availability and applicant needs, and are distributed according to donor intent and established criteria.

Esther Schlundt Memorial Scholarship Fund

Named in honor of an outstanding reference librarian at Purdue University.

Provides funding for applicants entering or currently enrolled in:

• ALA-accredited graduate programs in library and information science
• Library Technical Assistant Associate Degree programs (until phased out)
• Approved public library certification programs

Award Amount: Up to $1,000 (graduate) or up to $750 (assistant/certification), depending on enrollment hours.

Sue Marsh Weller Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides funding for applicants entering or currently enrolled in an ALA-accredited graduate program specializing in children’s librarianship, with plans to work with children or youth.

Award Amount: Up to $1,000, depending on enrollment hours.

William Gresh Memorial Scholarship

Provides funding for applicants entering or currently enrolled in a program to receive educational certification in Library Media Services.

Award Amount: Up to $1,000 to support MLS/MLIS coursework, depending on enrollment hours.

David Dickey Continuing Education Award

Awarded to individuals new to the academic library profession to support continuing education.

Funds may be used for:

• Attending professional conferences (e.g., ILF Annual Conference)
• Additional training or development opportunities

Award Amount: Up to $250 annually. ILF membership is not required. Previous recipients may reapply.