About

The Carin Alma E. Somers Scholarship Trust

The Atlantic Provinces Library Association administers the Carin Somers Scholarship Trust. The trust provides an annual scholarship, valued at approximately $1,000, in her name to assist a Canadian citizen who is an Atlantic Provinces resident needing financial assistance to undertake or complete the academic requirements leading to a degree in Library and Information Science. Selection of the recipient will be recommended by a committee of the four Provincial Vice Presidents and the President-Elect to the Executive Committee. The successful applicant will have been accepted in a School of Graduate Studies as a candidate for a Master’s degree in Library and Information Studies accredited by the American Library Association. The award will normally be announced at the Annual Atlantic Provinces Library Association Spring Conference.  

Carin Alma E. Somers 1934-1990

Carin Alma E. Somers was the Provincial Librarian for Nova Scotia from 1974 to 1987. Her working career as a librarian started in 1958 when she went to work at what was then the Halifax Memorial Library. She worked there both before and after going to library school at the University of Toronto. Carin became Chief Librarian of the Halifax County Regional Library in 1967 and oversaw the rapid growth of that region. In 1973, she was appointed Supervisor of Public Libraries (NS Provincial Library) and in 1974, Provincial Librarian. Carin was always a tireless supporter of public service, libraries and both CLA and APLA. During her time as Provincial Librarian, 100% of the population of Nova Scotia became served by public libraries. She was president of APLA, a second vice president of CLA, a guest lecturer at the Dalhousie School of Library and Information Services and a frequent speaker at trustees meetings. In 1988, APLA honoured Carin with its Merit Award. Carin died in 1990. The terms the trust established by her family, are a demonstration of her interest in people and in the profession which she chose. (preceeding from the APLA Bulletin, May/June, 1990 and Sept./Oct. 1996)  

Deadline

March 31st of each year

Submission Process

Forms

Nominations should be submitted by March 31 to

VP, President Elect
president-elect@apla.ca