Recent Grant & Scholarship Updates

The Central Minnesota Libraries Exchange (CMLE) is committed to supporting libraries across our region through targeted grants and scholarship opportunities. These investments are designed to strengthen library services, support staff development, and expand access for the communities you serve.

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Below, you’ll find brief updates from recent recipients, highlighting how funding is being used in libraries across our 12-county region. From professional learning and programming to space improvements and new resources, each update reflects practical, local impact.

Scholarships

Felicia Fiedler – Great River Regional Library (St. Cloud)
October 2025 Scholarship Recipient

With support from a CMLE professional development scholarship, Felicia Fiedler attended her first full Minnesota Library Association Annual Conference, held April 9–10, 2025, in St. Cloud. She explored sessions on topics such as updates to Dewey classification for religious subjects, the history of book banning, building connections with local authors, and strategies for managing workloads and prioritizing tasks. She also connected directly with vendors to learn more about available library resources. Felicia shared that she returned to her library inspired, with renewed passion for her work and the impact it has on her community.

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Dr. Jenny Hill – St. Cloud State University
October 2025 Scholarship Recipient

With support from a $2,000 CMLE scholarship, Dr. Jenny Hill attended the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, held October 16–18, 2025. This opportunity provided access to national-level learning and connection that would not have been possible through typical professional development funding.

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While at the conference, Dr. Hill contributed as a presenter in multiple sessions. She participated in an Idea Lab focused on school librarianship in schools without libraries, engaging in conversations with practitioners from across the country. She also led a concurrent session, Book Talking the Best, where she shared 2025 award-winning books with attendees.

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The conference also offered valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from across Minnesota, the United States, and Canada. Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Hill noted the importance of in-person collaboration and the inspiration gained from the event—including a keynote address by author Jason Reynolds.

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This experience continues to inform her work in preparing future library media specialists and supporting the broader library community.

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Margaret Nelson – East Central Regional Library (Cambridge Branch)
October 2025 Scholarship Recipient

With support from a CMLE scholarship, Margaret Nelson attended the Minnesota Library Association Conference in St. Cloud. The conference offered a wide range of sessions and opportunities to connect with peers—especially meaningful in roles where staff may be the only person in their position within a location.

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Margaret shared that the experience provided valuable connection and support during a challenging time, reinforcing the importance of community within the profession. She has already begun following up with vendors and authors from the conference to explore opportunities for future programs and events in Cambridge—enhancing services for both patrons and staff.

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Shelly Ash – Milaca High School
October 2025 Scholarship Recipient

With support from a CMLE scholarship, Shelly Ash attended the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) Conference in 2025. The conference offered a wide range of engaging sessions, providing valuable ideas and inspiration to bring back to her school library.

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Despite an unexpected injury early in the conference, Shelly shared that the experience was incredibly positive, with many sessions she was eager to attend and meaningful takeaways throughout. She expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity and looks forward to continuing her learning at future conferences.

Grants

Melrose Elementary School – Melrose Area Public Schools
Spring 2025 Grant Recipient

A recent library transformation at Melrose Elementary has created a more vibrant, functional space for students and staff. With support from a $5,000 CMLE grant secured by School Librarian/Media Specialist Holly Nelson, the school added new tables, chairs, and comfortable seating to enhance their story area.

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Alongside these updates, the library expanded its collection with 1,700 new books, ranging from early readers to chapter books. New shelving, a built-in desk, and a circulation desk have helped maximize the space, while a new smartboard supports engaging learning opportunities.

Together, these improvements have created a welcoming environment where students can connect with reading and continue to grow their love of literacy.

“Thank you so much for helping our school create such a beautiful library! We are forever grateful for your generosity!”
Holly Nelson, Melrose School District Librarian/Media Specialist

We’re proud to support this work and to help connect libraries with opportunities that make a difference—both for staff and for the communities they serve.

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Check back for continued updates as projects move forward and new opportunities become available.

Apply for a CMLE Grant or Scholarship

CMLE offers grants and scholarships to support professional development, enhance library spaces, and strengthen services across our region.

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Scholarships are available year-round, while grants are awarded three times annually (September 15, December 15, and March 15).

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Explore eligibility, guidelines, and apply on our website.