Applications are now being accepted for the "First Step Award-Wiley
Professional Development Grant," a cash award  which is applicable
toward travel costs for the next ALA Annual Conference in Orlando,
Florida, June 24-30th, 2004.

PURPOSE:
The purpose of the $1,500 grant is to provide librarians new to the
serials field with the opportunity to broaden their perspective and to
encourage professional development in American Library Association
Conferences and participation in ALA/ALCTS Serials Section activities.

ELIGIBILITY:
All ALA members with five or fewer years' professional experience in the serials field and who have not previously attended an ALA Annual Conference are eligible. Cash awards are applicable toward round trip transportation, lodging, registration fees, etc. Eligible applicants may apply more than once.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Completed applications shall be sent to the Chair of the First Step
Award Committee by the December 1st, 2003 deadline.

Each application shall include:

1.  A cover letter with candidate's justification for the grant in terms of commitment to/interest in serials related work; personal/professional development activities; how the grant would increase the candidate's professional career contributions; how the grant would benefit the candidate in his/her current position; and financial need.

2.  Candidate's current resume.

3.  Two supporting letters of reference (may be included with
candidate's application or sent under separate cover).

COMMITTEE CHAIR CONTACT INFORMATION:

Karen Darling
Head, Acquisitions Dept.
University of Missouri-Columbia Libraries
52 Ellis Library
Columbia, MO 65201-5149

Ph: 573 882-2835
Fax: 573 884-5243
Email: DarlingK@missouri.edu