Prairielands supports career development by offering continuing education scholarships to staff in member libraries. Scholarships are offered on both a quarterly ($400) and annual ($1000) basis for any appropriate training, workshop, or seminar, including annual events such as MLA, ITEM, Children’s Literature conference, etc. Staff of member libraries may apply for one quarterly scholarship per quarter of Prairieland’s fiscal year in addition to one annual scholarship. Scholarships may not be combined for use at the same event. The fiscal year quarters are:
- Quarter 1, July – September
- Quarter 2, October – December
- Quarter 3, January – March
- Quarter 4, April – June
All scholarships reimburse expenses related to the continuing education program. An eligible expense might include a registration fee, lodging, mileage, etc. Paid receipts will be required. Check with Prairielands for expenses that differ from these examples. Please note that as of July 1st, 2025, the guidelines have been updated to reflect a per-diem allotment for meal expenses.
Recipients are required to share their experience with other Prairielands members by submitting a report of at least 500 words through our online form.
Reimbursement forms for all scholarships are attached to approval letters.
Travel Expense Policy High-Cost Localities Applicant Checklist
Quarterly Scholarships: $400
Scholarship Guidelines
Scholarship Application
Scholarship Report
Annual Scholarships: $1000
Scholarship Guidelines
Scholarship Application
Scholarship Report
Scholarship Reports:
MLA by Elizabeth Hoffman/Plum Creek Library System
I chose to focus on technical services and creating more [...]
MLA by Lisa Spieker/Worthington Public School Libraries
Absolutely loved the opening Keynote, Mychal Threets. He was fun [...]
MLA by Connie Lechner/Redwood Falls Public Library
I am so appreciative of receiving this grant to attend [...]
Mental Health First Aid Training by Elizabeth Hoffman/Plum Creek Library System
The Mental Health First Aid training course through the MN [...]
MLA: Sara Oldre/Prairie Elementary & Intermediate School Libraries
I attended the MLA Conference in Rochester, MN on Oct. [...]
E-Library MN Expo by Chris Yard/ Kerkhoven & Benson Public Libraries
I am very glad that I was able to attend [...]