The Four W's and One H of the AALL Grant Program
Joyce Mama Janto, University of Richmond Law Librarian

The AALL Grants program is one of the most misunderstood endeavors that AALL sponsors. People do not understand where the money comes from, what the money is for, who is entitled to the money, or how to apply. To clear up some of the confusion, we are using an old journalism model. 

First, WHO may obtain a grant? Many members think that you must be a brand new librarian in order to qualify for a grant. That is not true. While preference is given to newer (in the profession 5 years or less) librarians, consideration is given to the contributions made by veterans.

Second, for WHAT purpose may the money be used? This is the most common misconception. Many members think the Grants and Scholarship Committees are interchangeable. The Grants program is not related to the Scholarship program. The Scholarship program gives tuition money to those pursuing a formal educational program. The Grants program is more focused, providing funding for members to attend either the AALL Annual Meeting or an AALL Institute or Workshop

Third, let's look at from WHERE the money comes. This is one of the most surprising things about the AALL Grants program because the money comes from us! AALL, as an organization, budgets no money for Grants. This money is accumulated through donations by vendors, who have generously underwritten this program, and by AALL members. This program counts on individual AALL members to donate money to help their colleagues who otherwise would not be able to participate in educational and professional development activities.

Finally, WHEN and HOW does one apply for an AALL Grant? As for when, the Grants application is available right now. The Grants application can be found either on AALLNET (http://www.aallnet.org/services/grant-application.asp); through the AALL fax-on-demand service (732-544-590 1); by calling AALL Headquarters (312-939-4764); or by e-mailing them (aallhq@aall.org). The deadline for the grant application is April 1, 2000. The how is equally easy. The current application and application procedures are clearly outlined on the Grants Committee page on AALLNET (http://www.aallnet.org/services/grants.asp) 

If you have any questions about this program, please contact Holly Mohler, Grants Committee Chair, at Long & Levit LLP Library by phone (415-438-4462) or by e-mail (hmohler@longlevit.com).