The Anne Hébert Memorial Bursary: Celebrating Passion and Compassion
Are you a library student with a heart for public libraries and a knack for making every patron feel seen? The ABQLA is proud to invite applications for the Anne Hébert Memorial Bursary, an annual award of up to $500 established to honour a librarian who truly lived her dream.
Honoring a Legacy of Warmth and Wit
Anne Hébert was more than a dedicated professional; she was a force of nature. A former ABQLA Student Chapter President and Supervising Librarian at the Ottawa Public Library, Anne’s career was defined by tireless advocacy for accessibility and a signature sense of humor that could brighten any room.
Whether patiently teaching a senior how to use an e-reader for the tenth time, designing creative displays that made the library pop, or effortlessly balancing a career while raising a beloved child, Anne did it all with a humble spirit and a contagious smile. We are looking for a student who carries that same spark.
This bursary is made possible entirely through the generosity of donors who believe in the future of compassionate librarianship. A special thanks to two of Anne’s former colleagues at the Cote Saint Luc Eleanor London Public Library, Janine West and Melissa Tomecz, for their generous support for this bursary each year.
-
We are looking for applicants who embody Anne’s "above and beyond" work ethic and their commitment to serving others. You might be the perfect candidate if you:
Love Public Libraries: You believe libraries are for everyone and are passionate about serving marginalized groups, older adults, or newcomers.
Prioritize Kindness: You treat every patron with humor and patience, turning even the toughest interactions into positive ones.
Are Engaged, Creative, Reliable: You can be counted on, and you enjoy getting involved in library events, displays, and community engagement.
Balance Life with Grace: While not a requirement, we especially encourage applications from student parents or caregivers who, like Anne, are navigating the dual responsibilities of family and graduate school.
-
Value: Up to $500, presented each spring.
Membership: Must be a current member of ABQLA. (Not a member yet? Join here!)
Education: Enrolled in (or accepted to) a professional program in library studies, whether at the Master’s level or ILT, within the Greater Montreal Area.
Focus: Demonstrated interest or experience in public library services and community outreach.
Note: This is a one-time bursary per recipient.
-
Help us celebrate Anne’s legacy by sharing your journey with us. Please submit your application package by the deadline, including:
Completed Application Form
Cover letter / Letter of Intent
Current CV (Don't be afraid to let your energy and community spirit shine through!)
Proof of Enrollment
Optional: A letter of reference is welcome, but not required
-
The ABQLA Bursary Committee evaluates each application with a focus on finding a student who shares Anne’s dedication and spirit. To ensure fairness and transparency, supervisors or colleagues of applicants do not participate in the review of those specific files. Every applicant will be notified of the committee’s decision via email.
-
The bursary recipient will be invited to:
Celebrate with Us: Attend the ABQLA Awards Ceremony in the spring to accept the bursary and offer a brief thank-you.
Share Your Story and Inspire Others: Consent to having your photo and bio featured on the ABQLA website to inspire future applicants.
Pay it Forward: Help us spread the good news and promote the bursary through your own professional and student networks!
Be heard in the Association: Write a short, engaging article for the ABQLA Bulletin detailing what the bursary means to you.
Please Note: Applications for 2026 are now closed. The committee reserves the right not to grant a bursary in any given year, contingent upon funding and the application of a suitable candidate.