Library and Archives Canada (LAC) has announced the third annual call for applications to the Price McIntosh Bursary, a financial initiative aimed at promoting diversity in library and archival studies. The bursary, which supports Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities, offers $5,000 for full-time students and $2,500 for part-time students. As part of LAC’s broader commitment to inclusive representation, the initiative seeks to encourage underrepresented groups to enroll or continue studies in fields related to libraries and archives, contributing to the diversity and enrichment of Canada’s collective history.
A Boost for Underrepresented Groups
The bursary, launched to support underrepresented groups – including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and visible minorities – seeks to encourage enrolment and pursuit of studies in library and archives related fields. It offers an appealing financial incentive of $5,000 for full-time students, and $2,500 for part-time students, for the 2023–2024 academic year.
Deadline Approaching: Bursary Applications Close September
For students interested in benefitting from this opportunity, applications are open until September 20, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time. Eligibility is confirmed by bursary coordinators, followed by a thorough review of the applications by the selection committee, which is led by LAC’s Diversity, Inclusion and Multiculturalism Champion. The committee’s recommendations are then presented to the Librarian and Archivist of Canada for final approval. Selection is based on the compatibility of the applicant’s field of study with the bursary’s aim, as well as the quality, content, and presentation of the application. Applicants can rest assured that the process is carefully managed to ensure the bursary’s objective of fostering diversity and inclusion within the fields of library and archival studies is achieved.
Ensuring Diverse Stories and Experiences Are Told
This initiative is part of the LAC’s broader goal of promoting the inclusion of diverse stories, experiences, and interpretations within Canada’s historical and contemporary narrative.
Preserving Canada’s Documentary Heritage
As the Librarian and Archivist of Canada, Leslie Weir, noted, “The library and archives community must bring together diverse voices and perspectives to become more representative. This is exactly what we are doing with the Price McIntosh Bursary.”
“The library and archives community must bring together diverse voices and perspectives to become more representative. This is exactly what we are doing with the Price McIntosh Bursary. By making it easier for young people from frequently under-represented groups to pursue careers in our field, we will improve the documentation, preservation and dissemination of our national heritage.”
Leslie Weir, Librarian and Archivist of Canada
Building on a History of Inclusive Initiatives
The Price McIntosh Bursary builds on LAC’s track record of inclusivity. Recent investments include $14.9 million directed to support Indigenous communities, enhancing access to Indigenous-related content, and assisting First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation in preserving their cultures and languages.
Listening to the Youth: The LAC Youth Advisory Council
In addition to financial support, LAC has also been proactive in gaining input from younger generations, coordinating a Youth Advisory Council to bring together Canadians from different backgrounds to provide fresh perspectives on Canada’s documentary heritage.
