Betty Fast Memorial Endowment

January 12, 2015

Elizabeth T. “Betty” Fast (1931-1977) was Director of School Library Media Services in the Groton Public Schools in Groton, Connecticut until her death in 1977 after a five-year battle with cancer. She was an energetic and intelligent woman dedicated to library services for youth in both school and public libraries. She earned an MLS from the University of Rhode Island in 1968 and a Sixth-Year Professional Certificate in Education for Youth Services from the University of Connecticut in 1972. She was instrumental in the establishment of the first Groton Public Library and when the library moved to a new building in 1977, they dedicated a memorial plaque to her: “Open the mind of the child to reach the soul of the adult.” Betty Fast was also committed to serving the profession, including the ALA Executive Board, and she was awarded a merit citation by Rheta Clark in 1975 for her “Outstanding librarianship and devotion to the profession.”

This memorial Scholarship was established by her family, alumni and friends to recognize students in the GSLIS program who show excellence in their academic work, strong potential in library leadership, and a commitment to youth services in school or public libraries. The award will be made in the form of a tuition benefit.

To apply for the Betty Fast Memorial Scholarship, a matriculated GSLIS student must be in good academic standing and should submit an application packet to the Admissions and Awards Committee by February 15 (October 15th the Fall 2013 semester). The packet should contain the following:

  • a one page cover letter, nominating yourself for the award and highlighting your special qualifications especially your commitment to youth services;
  • a completed application form;
  • your resume and program of study; and
  • a statement of financial need.

Applications will be evaluated for evidence of professional growth and responsibility; academic excellence; commitment to youth services in school or public libraries, and financial need.

Send your responses to:

Admissions and Awards Committee
Graduate School of Library and Information Studies
94 West Alumni Avenue, Suite 2
Rodman Hall
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, RI 02881