Am I eligible to apply?
The Mortenson Center Associates Program is a program for individuals working in a library and/or information services setting outside the United States.
What visa category should I be applying for if I want to attend the Mortenson Center Associates program?
B1/B2 visa is the recommended visa to apply for.
Do I have to ask my direct supervisor to write my letter of recommendation?
It is recommended that you talk to your supervisor regarding your application as they need to support your attendance and feedback to colleagues after returning from the Mortenson Center Associates Program. However, recommendation letters can also come from a library director or a mentor.
I have a colleague who is my mentor in the organization, can I ask them to write my letter of recommendation?
Yes, recommendation letters from a range of people who are interested in your professional journey is great.
How long does the Mortenson Center Associates program take?
The 2025 Mortenson Center Associates program lasts for 3.5 weeks. The 2025 Associates Program will take place 2 June – 25 June.
Is the ALA (American Library Association) conference attendance included in the Associates program?
No, the conference attendance is optional. However, Associates are welcome to attend if they wish, our program is organized to allow delegates time to attend the ALA conference.
What does the Associates program include?
In the 3.5 weeks, the program offers an opportunity for librarians and information specialists to learn first-hand the workings of U.S. libraries. You will be learning as a cohort of international library and information innovative leaders. The program includes:
- Seminars and Workshops which provide an overview of current trends in the field. Library experts will be invited to share their perspectives, offer expertise, and foster conversations on the themes of communication and leadership.
- Tours of a variety of libraries, including academic, public, and school libraries. We may also visit the American Library Association headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, and other sites of interest.
- Networking with a dynamic group of international colleagues during and post-program.
- Participants will develop individual action plans appropriate to their professional and institutional needs and will receive post-program implementation review.
Are meals provided as part of the program?
A few meals are provided in the program, so participants are required to set aside approximately $1,000 for meals and other personal expenses during the duration of the program.
What is the cost of the program and when is payment due?
The total cost for the program is $4,000 USD. This fee covers: Accommodations, Transportation for field visits, Programming costs, Speaker fees, Medical Insurance and Other materials and logistics. Applicants are encouraged to set aside an additional $3,000 to cater for airfare, visa application and out of pocket expenses mentioned above. The deadlines for fee payment are as follows:
14 February 2025– Deposit-$200 non-refundable fee, Placeholder fee. Upon request, a deposit may be rolled over to the next year
1 April 2025– $3,800- Remaining balance due
Early preparation of funds recommended
Payment Methods: Wire transfer (https://www.flywire.com/pay/Mortenson) or Credit card payment (transaction fees are paid by applicant)
Are there funding opportunities provided for the Mortenson Center Associates program attendance?
The Mortenson Center will provide 3 scholarships of $3,800 each to cover program fees to support participation in the 2025 Associates Program. Please see tab above on Funding opportunity. Other funding opportunities include the Naseej Academy Grant which was developed to support participants from the Arabian Gulf Region.
Is accommodation provided as part of the program?
The program provides on-campus student residential housing. These are shared suites with common areas (single room accommodation may also be available). There is easy access to local shops, restaurants, libraries and other campus buildings by walking or bus.
If I’m not selected this year, may I reapply?
You are welcome to reapply for the program but please contact us if you are not able to attend after being accepted.
Can I contact the Center if I need help about the Associates program?
Yes you may contact the center for any further inquiries or questions about the program at: Mortenson@illinois.edu.