The British Library, Libraries and Information East Midlands and the East Midlands Branch of CILIP have joined forces to create an exciting new opportunity for staff from Libraries and Information organisations in the East Midlands to carry out research in the collections of the British Library at St. Pancras. A total of £4000 is available and awards are made for sums around £500, although bids up to £1000 will be considered.

The bursaries offer an excellent opportunity for professional and personal development and for East Midlands librarians working towards Chartership or Revalidation. The region's first bursary was awarded to Lesley Phillips of Derbyshire libraries and you can read Lesley account of her experience of undertaking her research at the British Library below.   Nottinghamshire Hospital Librarian, Madeline Cox  was the second awardee and her report can also be seen below. 

The aims of the British Library / LIEM / CILIP Bursaries are to:

• encourage the use of the British Library by professionals in the region
• assist in the continued professional development of librarians
• develop and broaden research work being undertaken
• encourage the interchange of ideas and experiences on a regional and national basis
• enable new partnerships between organisations and the British Library
• enhance the British Library's presence in the region
• improve access to British Library resources and provide enhanced services for users in the regions

The bursaries are mainly aimed at those wishing to research an exhibition, publication or project. Applicants will need to show that other sources have been investigated and explain how access to the BL's resources will complement and enhance their work.

Further information and an application form is available in pdf format by clicking on the link below.

Visit to the British Library  (2007)

British Library Bursary Report (Dec 2006) 21Kb

Flyer & Application Form - BL Bursary Scheme 107Kb