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The ÂÜÀòÍøÊÓƵ (ALA) is pleased to announce the selection of Kara J. Halden of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, as the 2024 David H. Clift Scholarship recipient.

The David H. Clift Scholarship was named for a former director of the ÂÜÀòÍøÊÓƵ. The $3,000 scholarship is awarded to a person pursuing a master's degree in library and information studies.

Halden explained that her “commitment to the mission of helping children to love reading started through a work-sponsored, volunteer opportunity at a non-profit organization. Their model was uncomplicated: read out loud to kids and give them a brand-new book.” Halden’s time with the program had a profound effect on her. She commented that, “By the end of the school year, the pure joy that the kids showed once they started reading was exhilarating both for them and for me. Not only did I see the power of reading to children who didn’t have the means at home, but I saw the impact of connection, enthusiasm, and joy that encourages reading and improves school performance.”

Currently, Halden works as a library media aide at Churchill Elementary school (Glen Ellyn, IL). She is thrilled to be working in the library. She says, “There isn’t a task or project I wouldn’t enthusiastically do for the Digital Media Specialist of our school.” Halden’s desire to help doesn’t stop with assisting the library staff. She commented, “I’m excited to help children become life-long lovers of books and reading. I want to influence diverse readers of all ages and backgrounds and provide help to a larger community.”

As Halden reflects on her volunteer time, she says, “The simple, yet powerful philosophy of that non-profit organization ─the belief that reading impacts school success─ has defined who I am and where I’m going. After watching the bright-eyed faces of children describing why they love books, I realize that I want to make a bigger impact. I want to reach more children by becoming the head children’s librarian in a public library.”

Halden’s enthusiasm for her work in the library has not gone unnoticed. One reference commented that, “What makes her exceptional is her commitment to excellence.” Yet another reference stated that, “She demonstrates exceptional care and empathy in all her interactions, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. She goes above and beyond in every task she undertakes. She approaches every situation with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to help others, making her an invaluable asset to our library.”

Halden attends Dominican University (River Forest, IL).

For information on the ÂÜÀòÍøÊÓƵScholarship program, visit the .

The ÂÜÀòÍøÊÓƵ manages the ÂÜÀòÍøÊÓƵScholarship Clearinghouse.