Kenlee Ray Library & Archives Fellows  

The Kenlee Ray '67 Library & Archives Fellows program advances career discovery.  Every spring semester the program accepts two Earlham undergraduates interested in the library, archives, or related library information science (LIS) professions. Students undertake a 135-hour practicum and a one-credit tutorial under the supervision of Earlham Libraries administrative faculty. They also meet with Earlham LIS alumni and Career Development administrative faculty. Upon successful completion of the semester, each student receives $1500 less taxes withheld. Envisioned and managed by the Earlham Libraries, the Kenlee Ray Library & Archives Fellows program is funded by generous donor support that yields positive outcomes for both students and the College.

Student Outcomes:

• Gain experience in the LIS workplace.
• Explore LIS professional associations and issues.
• Initiate a network of LIS professional contacts.
• Develop a significant vocational relationship with an adult in the LIS profession at Earlham.
• Refine interviewing, resume, and cover-letter writing skills.
• Recognize the power of self-reflection and planning in terms of career aspirations.

Institutional Outcomes:

• Cultivate future professional leaders with Earlham connections.
• Link current students to Earlham LIS alumni, and LIS alumni to Earlham.
• Demonstrate the value of the Earlham Libraries to College recruitment and retention.
• Align the Earlham Libraries with the College focus on post-graduate success.

Modalities during Spring Semester:

• Practicum
• 9 hours weekly for 15 weeks: an experiential immersion with units in reference, archives, technical services, and information literacy instruction.
• Tutorial
• 1 hour weekly for 15 weeks: a text-based, one-credit conversation with a librarian or archivist about an assigned reading.
• Job-Seeker Training
• Meetings with Career Development administrative faculty to learn about interviewing, resume-writing, and other vocational skills.
• Self-Reflection
• Journaling and the option for a clearness committee.
• Alumni Engagement
• Meetings with LIS alumni brought to campus, in their workplace at other institutions, or at professional conferences.

To Apply:

• Earlham juniors/seniors preferred.
• Complete the online application form (including personal statement and the names of references).
• Deadline: October 29, 2012
• For more information contact Neal Baker, Library Director.