Investing in School Library Leaders Through CMLE Scholarships

Professional learning has the power to transform not only individual librarians, but also the students, educators, and communities they serve. Through its Grant and Scholarship Program, the Central Minnesota Libraries Exchange (CMLE) is proud to help library professionals access meaningful learning experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.

One recent scholarship recipient, Dr. Jenny Hill, Associate Professor and Program Director for Library Media at St. Cloud State University, received a $2,000 CMLE scholarship to attend the 2025 American Association of School Librarians (AASL) National Conference in St. Louis. The scholarship made it possible for her to participate in an opportunity that exceeded her annual professional development budget.

While at the conference, Dr. Hill didn't just attend—she contributed to the profession. She presented in the Idea Lab, sharing ideas about School Librarianship in Schools Without Libraries, and led a well-attended concurrent session, Book Talking the Best, featuring award-winning books from 2025.

The experience also provided valuable opportunities to connect with school librarians from Minnesota, across the United States, and Canada. After years of increased virtual collaboration, those in-person conversations proved especially meaningful. Dr. Hill also fulfilled a personal goal by hearing award-winning author Jason Reynolds deliver the conference keynote—an experience she described as a dream come true because she regularly shares his work with her students.

Reflecting on the conference, Dr. Hill shared that the scholarship allowed her to gain practical ideas she could immediately apply, present on topics she is passionate about, learn from experts in the field, and build lasting professional connections. Most importantly, she emphasized that she could not have afforded the experience without CMLE's support.

Stories like Dr. Hill's demonstrate the lasting impact of CMLE's Grant and Scholarship Program. By investing in professional growth, these opportunities help librarians expand their knowledge, strengthen their leadership, and bring new ideas back to the schools and communities they serve.

Apply for a CMLE Grant or Scholarship

If you're looking to attend a conference, pursue professional development, or enhance your library's programs, CMLE's grants and scholarships can help make those opportunities possible.

Don't let funding stand in the way of your next professional learning experience. Explore CMLE's grant and scholarship opportunities and apply today!