Mrs. Bernice Wells Carlson, Class of 1932, has been making an annual gift to the College since 1992.  Her intention has been to guarantee an eight-hour work grant for students interested in learning about libraries. She writes, “Working in a college library is a learning as well as earning experience and no student should be denied the opportunity to learn by doing.”

Structure of the Award: The recipient of the award will have the opportunity to shadow librarians in their departments and learn about the various facets of library work.  The student will also  be invited to attend professional conferences with librarians (students can apply for funding through the Student Activities office or through the Wisconsin Library Association) and visit libraries at other institutions.

Who is Eligible: Ripon College students, particularly those who are interested in pursuing careers in librarianship, elementary education or writing. 

Amount Awarded: Approximately enough for one student to work 8 hours per week in the library over the course of an academic year.

Timetable:  Library staff solicits applications from students after fall break and applications are due November 23.  The winner is announced at the Awards Convocation in April.  Student will receive the award for the following academic year.

To apply:  Complete this essay and return to Valerie Viers via email or campus mail: ViersV@ripon.edu  If you have questions, call (920) 748 8752.

Past winners:

2003-04 Christopher Klimp

2004-05 Calah Goehring

2005-06 Matthew Nicolai

For more information about Ms. Carlson see:

Bernice Wells Carlson Papers at USM

http://www.lib.usm.edu/~degrum/html/research/findaids/carlson,bernice.htm