This state scholarship, awarded every four years, is intended -‘to provide for a woman to undertake in Australia or overseas, the investigation of social problems and/or a study in the field of social sciences. The investigation or study should be relevant to social conditions in South Australia and be capable of being applied for the benefit of the state. Value of the Scholarship in 2013: $25,000.’
Jo developed the Library Lions program and in setting it up, discovered how little has been done in Australia in regard to providing access to library programs for children with special needs. This lack provided the basis for Jo’s application.
With the scholarship Jo will undertake a study tour of libraries in the US that run library programs for children with special needs and that also have in place strategies for improving access for children with special needs and their families. Two such libraries are Brooklyn Public Libraries and New Jersey Public Library. Jo will also be attending the 2014 ALSC (Association for Library Services to Children) National Institute in California.
The scholarship will enable Jo to develop a document that will provide valuable knowledge in this area and will assist libraries in South Australia to develop their own programs and strategies for children with special needs and their families.
Well done Jo!
Veronica Mathews
Acting Manager, Public Library Programs
Public Library Services
Congratulations Jo,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great initiative you have set up and also plan to laern more about. I hope you have a wonderful, intellectually stimulating time - I'm sure you will. And I look forward to you sharing your learning with the Network on your return.
Congratulations Jo
ReplyDeleteIt is a great opportunity and you will come back with great ideas and lots of energy to progress your library and the network. Congratulations and looking forward to hearing about your study.