The American Library Association Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table (GNCRT) is excited to announce the second round of a grant opportunity supporting the professional development of library workers interested in expanding their knowledge and experience with comics in libraries. By providing funds to attend the upcoming 2024 ALA Annual Conference, GNCRT seeks to recognize the value and expertise of comics librarianship and provide resources for newer library professionals with limited financial support. Applications for the grant are open now and the deadline to apply is April 1, 2024.
Through the GNCRT Comics Librarian Conference Travel Grant, two recipients will be selected to receive reimbursement of up to $3,000 toward their attendance at the upcoming 2024 ALA Annual Conference in San Diego, CA. The funds may be used to reimburse the cost of conference registration, travel and hotel expenses and meals during the conference. Additionally, GNCRT will provide opportunities for the grant winners to participate in sessions and network with comics publishers and their fellow GNCRT members. Find eligibility information and application instructions online.
The funding for these grants was provided by graphic novel publisher Skybound Entertainment’s donation of $6,000. GNCRT is grateful for the money provided by Skybound Entertainment, which provided essential support to establish the grant in 2023 and continue the grant in 2024. Additional opportunities to support this exciting award will be available going forward.
GNCRT Past-President Moni Barrette said: “We’re grateful for the continued support from Skybound and are thrilled to have Oni Press as a new contributor, as well! As funding for this grant continues to grow it allows GNCRT to offer professional development opportunities for library workers this year and next, as well as consider how we will be able to expand these grants to support even more recipients in the future.”
Current GNCRT President Robin Brenner added: “I was delighted to be able to meet last year’s recipients and witness firsthand the impact attending ALA Annual had for both. We’re so excited to be able to offer two more library workers the chance to expand their professional knowledge and comics network by attending this year’s conference.”
“There are few institutions more crucial to the past, present and future of this country than libraries. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to support the ALA GNCRT in their tireless work to create new readers and spotlight diverse voices across America,” said Arune Singh, Vice President, Brand, Editorial at Skybound Entertainment. “It is important for us to show our support by increasing our financial contribution this year to ensure that even more deserving librarians can attend ALA Annual to discover the best in graphic novels, participate in programming and be celebrated for their contributions year-round to all communities.”
For more information on the “GNCRT Comics Librarian Conference Travel Grant,” how to apply for consideration, and for comics publishers interested in financially contributing, please visit: https://www.ala.org/rt/gncrt/comics-librarian-conference-travel-grant
