Over the years, many contributions have been made to MLA – most with specific use attached. As we looked for ways to recognize the needs of underrepresented individuals within the library community, the MLA board approved a change to a fund that didn’t have any restrictions or ties. With the dollars already within the fund, and a commitment to fundraise each year to keep it a healthy resource, we proudly unveil the MLA Equity Fund Grants.

MLA affirms its commitment to diversity and inclusion by supporting the broadest participation of racially and ethnically diverse librarians and library support staff who provide leadership in the transformation of libraries and library services.

The new MLA Equity Fund will be used as an individual grant geared toward the professional development of individuals currently underrepresented in the library profession. This fund will reduce financial barriers and uplift the professional development for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, North African, and Middle Eastern individuals by providing resources to be used for memberships, attendance at workshops, educational events or conferences of applicants’ choosing, or for other purposes that they believe increase their ability to impact and transform the library profession.

Download the MLA Equity Fund Guidelines for complete details.

Applications should be submitted using the online form: https://www.milibraries.org/equity-fund-application

All application materials are due to MLA by Friday, July 31, 2020, by 5:00 pm.