Our Project

In summer 2010 the University of California, Riverside University Library, in partnership with ten libraries in the Inland Empire and the UCLA Department of Information Studies, was awarded a $974,259 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Laura Bush 21^st Century Librarian Program. The IMLS program supported projects that “encourage careers in librarianship…ensuring that the profession is prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century.” Our award provided fellowships, internships, and professional development support for library employees from partner, affiliate, and regional libraries, as well as graduate students and graduating seniors from partner, affiliate, and regional institutions, to pursue an ALA-accredited graduate program in library and information studies.

Although the fellowship program concluded in June 2014, the IE LEADS network and follow-up studies continues to grow.  This site provides information on the project and research findings.

Diversity Statement

The dual goals of the Inland Empire LEADS grant fellowship program are to recruit a new generation of library professionals who are strongly committed to serve the culturally and ethnically diverse communities of the region.  Diversity is viewed within the context of the demographics of the Inland Empire and Los Angeles county regions, which may include but are not limited to race, culture, ethnicity, gender, age, religion/faith, socioeconomic background, physical abilities/qualities, sexual orientation, and linguistic ability.