Bernard Becker Medical Library is fortunate to have robust collections in archives and rare books that document the history of medicine from the late 15th century up to the present. Subjects in which the library’s holdings are particularly strong include ophthalmology and optics, neurology, deaf education, and the history of dentistry. In order to encourage researchers living more than 100 miles from St. Louis to use these collections, Becker Library offers two grants annually of up to $1,000 each to help defray the costs of travel, lodging, food and photo reproductions. Covered expenses will be reimbursed at the conclusion of the visit.
Applications for the fall semester travel scholarship are due by Sept. 1, and the scholarship awardee will be notified by Oct. 1.
Eligible applicants are students enrolled in graduate degree programs (master’s and above), faculty and independent scholars. Applications will be reviewed by Becker Library’s rare book librarian and archivists. Preference will be given to applicants whose projects overlap with the library’s subject strengths. They will have up to six months to use their award and must submit a brief report upon the completion of their visit.
To apply, please send the following to the travel scholarship committee at arb@wusm.wustl.edu by Sept. 1, 2022, (include “travel grant application” in the email’s subject line):
- A personal statement describing how the library collections will be beneficial to the applicant’s research (no more than one page)
- Current curriculum vitae
- Letter of recommendation from an academic advisor if the applicant is a student
- Applicant’s name, address, phone number and email address
Additional information about Becker Library’s archival and rare book holdings can be found here.