Solid navy coloured background with text IFLA WLIC 2026 Grants

Angela Bersekowski Grant

Application deadline

28 February 2026

With a generous contribution from the legacy of Angela Bersekowski, IFLA is pleased to be able to offer 10 participation grants to young professionals to attend the IFLA WLIC 2026 in Busan, South Korea.

This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the energy and fresh ideas of the next generation of library leaders to a global stage, encouraging new conversations, and building connections that will shape the future of the library profession.

What does the grant cover?

The grant includes full coverage of the registration fee, along with a contribution of EUR 500 to assist with travel or accommodation.

Applicants must be able to cover all other travel and accommodation costs themselves.

Eligibility

The grant is open to librarians and library workers from all library types.

To be eligible, the applicant must:

  • Be under 35 years of age.
  • Be a member of an IFLA association member, either a national or other library association.
  • Have a reasonable level of English language knowledge due to their expected participation in a grantee programme during WLIC.

 

Priority will be given to the applicants who are first-time attendees of the IFLA World Library and Information Congress.

What we expect from you

As a grantee, we ask you to contribute in a few light-touch ways that help us strengthen the programme, share its impact and build a community:

  • Join a meetup for grantees during the conference
  • Share social media posts about your conference experience (optional if you don’t use social platforms)
  • Contribute a short post-event reflection
  • Attend an online brief impact follow-up (6 months later)

How to apply?

To apply, please complete the application form and upload a single PDF file that includes the following:

  • Curriculum vitae (up to 2 pages, with max 1 further page of references to articles or other work done): Provide a brief overview of your educational background, professional experience, and any relevant achievements or contributions to the library field.
  • Proof of association membership: Submit documentation confirming you are a member of an IFLA association member, either national or other library association.
  • Statement or letter from your employer supporting your attendance at WLIC.
  • Motivation letter (max 300 words): Tell us why you’re excited about the opportunity to attend WLIC and how it will shape your professional growth and future in librarianship. You may wish to describe:
    • Your career goals and how attending this global event could help you achieve them.
    • What specific things are you eager to discover or explore at the conference?
    • How will the knowledge, insights, and connections you gain inspire new ideas or initiatives that can transform your library association?
    • Are there any creative ways you plan to share your new learnings?

 

Please be clear about any use of AI in the preparation of your letter or application. We recognise the value of AI in helping with language (especially for non-native speakers of English), but want it to be your voice and ideas that we read!

Important dates

  • Application deadline: 23:59 Amsterdam time on 28 February 2026
  • Successful candidates will be notified by: 1 April 2026
Apply now!

Questions?

Please contact grants@ifla.org.