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:
Music Library Association Annual Conference by Blaine Brubaker/ Plum Creek Library System
This year, the Music Library Association gathered online to discuss [...]
Community Co-Design by Carrie Dose/Jackson County Library System
I had the opportunity to attend the "Community Co-Design: How [...]
Library Management Training by Carrie Dose/Jackson County Library System
I had the opportunity to attend the 8-week Library Management [...]
Mental Health First Aid by Elizabeth Hoffman/ Plum Creek Library System
This program was hosted by the MN Safety Council and focused on supporting [...]
Romance GenreCon by Magie Wieneke/Rock County Community Library
Romance GenreCon was an excellent opportunity for me to dig [...]
Camp Read a Lot by Cindy Miller/ Dawson Public Library
Camp Read A Lot is a fun experience. The book [...]