Introduction
Every two years, VALA – Libraries, Technology and the Future Inc. awards its biennial scholarships of up to $13,000 AUD, for individuals to undertake international travel to explore developments in the application of information technology in libraries and information services. These scholarships are awarded to members of the library and information community to assist in meeting expenses for travel overseas. Leading edge research into new and emerging technologies not yet implemented in Australia and of relevance to the library and information services community will be highly regarded.
Examination of general library automation, particularly pertaining to systems currently available in Australia, is unlikely to be funded. Successful candidates will be invited to present at the VALA Biennial Conference in Melbourne in February 2016.
Nominations are now closed for the 2014 VALA Travel Scholarship.
Eligibility
Candidates should be currently working in a library or information service or related area. There are no formal qualifications required and it is expected that some applications will be received from candidates who are not working in traditional library environments or with traditional library qualifications.
In general, an award will not be made for the purpose of pursuing formal overseas courses of study. An award is also unlikely to be made where an award from another granting body has been received by the candidate. Prior recipients of a VALA Travel Scholarship are not eligible to apply.
Terms
An amount not exceeding $13,000 AUD (including any GST costs) will be made to each successful candidate to fund travel, accommodation and living expenses, including costs to attend the VALA Biennial Conference in 2016. The scholarship must be taken up by 30 June 2015, unless a specific variation in this condition has been included at the time of the award.
The successful candidate(s) will:
- Submit a summary of all relevant activities undertaken while travelling with the support of the VALA Travel Scholarship within three months of the scholarship’s completion.
- Provide a detailed account of all expenses incurred, and all available supporting receipts.
- Present at the VALA2016 Conference, based on his/her research, experiences and observations gained with the support of the VALA Scholarship.
- Seek prior approval of the VALA Committee for any presentations prior to the VALA2016 Conference.
- Make due acknowledgement of VALA’s support in any publications describing work which has been wholly or partially supported by the VALA Travel Scholarship.
- Lodge a copy of any publications with the VALA Committee for access by members of VALA.
Application
Applications must be received by Friday 5 December 2014 via the VALA Travel Scholarship 2014 Application Form.
If necessary, additional supporting documentation can be mailed to:
VALA – Libraries, Technology and the Future Inc.
P O Box 443
Warrandyte Victoria 3113
Closing Date
The closing date is Friday 5 December 2014. Late entries cannot be accepted. Successful recipients will be advised prior to end December 2014 and formal announcement made in January 2015. Candidates are required to nominate a person able to provide an independent assessment of the application.
Applications must be accompanied by a preliminary travel timetable. Support documentation such as copies of correspondence confirming interview arrangements with key people, should be included with the application.
Selection
Selection of the successful candidate(s) will be made by a Travel Scholarship Committee appointed by the VALA Committee.
VALA reserves the right not to award a scholarship in any year.
Notice in writing shall be forwarded to each applicant, as to whether such candidate has been successful or not, and, in the case of a successful candidate, giving details of the value and terms of the award and any conditions.
Forfeiture of Scholarships
The unpaid balance of any scholarship may at the absolute discretion of the VALA Committee be forfeited in the following cases:
- Death of the scholar.
- In the event of a scholar not fulfilling any conditions which may be attached to the terms of his or her scholarship.
- In the event of a scholar for any reason whatever being prevented from continuing his or her travel.
- In the event that the scholar does not utilise the scholarship within 7 months of its award.
General
The VALA Committee reserves the right to amend these rules and conditions from time to time as it in its absolute discretion thinks fit, provided however that any such amendment shall not in any way affect any scholarships already awarded pursuant to these rules and regulations.
The VALA Committee reserves the right to appoint agents to assist in the carrying out of all or any of its functions relating to the scholarship.
No member of the VALA Travel Scholarship Committee shall be eligible for a VALA Travel Scholarship.