Gale, a leading publisher of research and reference resources for libraries, schools and businesses and part of Cengage Learning. Gale is inviting librarians to submit for two opportunities to attend the 2012 Public Library Association annual conference in Philadelphia. In partnership with WebJunction, Gale will be providing travel, lodging registration and all related expenses for library staff (serving populations of 50 thousand or less) to attend the PLA conference next March. Libraries can apply for the scholarship online by submitting a short essay answering one of two questions:

• How will attending PLA help me or my library bridge the digital divide for our patrons?
OR
• How will attending PLA help me increase innovative or unique advocacy efforts to demonstrate value in my community?

Applications are due by January 18, 2012. Librarians can enter online here - https://cengage.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6VS3M1tAW2K8xTK&channel=Eloqua&.... I was hoping you could include this information in the next LIS News email to let small libraries know about this opportunity.

In addition, Gale will soon be offering special training, services, discounted resources, and product feedback opportunities for small and rural public librarians as part of the Small Library Support Program. Please visit http://galesites.com/trial/bridge/ to learn more.

Additional information on this program will be available in the coming months.