The ABQLA Professional Development Bursary: Investing in Your Growth
Are you looking to sharpen your skills, attend a transformative conference, or dive into a new area of research? The ABQLA is delighted to offer the ABQLA Professional Development Bursary, an annual award of $500 designed to help our members access enriching opportunities that move their careers forward.
Supporting Lifelong Learning
This bursary is rooted in our commitment to the continuous growth of our community. We want to provide professional enrichment that might otherwise be out of reach, encouraging the exchange of expertise and strengthening the bond between our members. By supporting your professional journey, we aim to keep the Quebec library and information sector vibrant, connected, and inspired.
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We are looking for applicants who are eager to expand their horizons and bring new knowledge back to their communities. You are an ideal candidate if you:
Seek Growth: You have identified a specific conference, workshop, seminar, or course (in-person or online) that will truly impact your work.
Can Articulate Your Impact: You can clearly explain how this opportunity is relevant to your specific library community and how the funds will be used.
Are an Active Professional: You have a record of contributing to the sector through work, volunteering, or prior association involvement.
Value Knowledge Sharing: You are excited to share what you learn with your colleagues and the wider ABQLA network.
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Value: $500, presented each spring at the ABQLA Awards Ceremony.
Membership: Must be a current or new member of ABQLA. Not a member yet? Join us here!
Professional Status: You must be working in a library or information studies-related field. (Please note: This bursary is not open to students).
Timeline: Your chosen professional development opportunity must take place within one year of receiving the bursary.
Note: This is a one-time bursary per recipient.
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We want to hear about the opportunities that inspire you! Please submit your application package by the deadline, including:
Completed Application Form
Current CV highlighting your experience, publications, or contributions to the field or the Quebec library community
Cover letter / Letter of Intent detailing how the funds will be used and how the opportunity is relevant to your specific library community.
Optional: A letter of reference is welcome, but not required
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The ABQLA Bursary Committee evaluates applications based on the criteria above, prioritizing the uniqueness and relevance of the opportunity to your professional path. To ensure fairness, supervisors or colleagues of applicants do not participate in the review of those specific files. All applicants will be notified of the results via email.
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The bursary recipient will be invited to:
Celebrate with Us: Attend the ABQLA Awards Ceremony to accept the bursary and offer a brief thank-you.
Share Your Voice: Write an article for the ABQLA Bulletin detailing your experience or what you learned.
Inspire Others: Consent to having your photo and biographical information shared on the ABQLA website.
Acknowledge Support: Mention the ABQLA Professional Development Bursary in any presentations or posters resulting from the funded opportunity.
Spread the Word: Help us promote the bursary through your professional networks!
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.