The Library History Round Table (LHRT) of the American Library Association (ALA) invites submissions for the Justin Winsor Library History Essay Award. The Justin Winsor Library History Essay Award is given annually to recognize the best essay written in English on library history. The award is named in honor of the distinguished nineteenth-century librarian, historian, and bibliographer who was also ALA’s first president. It consists of a certificate and a $500 cash award, as well as an invitation to have the winner’s essay considered for publication in Libraries: Culture, History, and Society.

Criteria

Manuscripts submitted should not be previously published, previously submitted for publication, or under consideration for publication or another award. To be considered, essays should embody original historical research on a significant topic in library history, be based on primary sources whenever possible, and use good English composition and superior style. The Library History Round Table is particularly interested in works that place the subject within its broader historical, social, cultural, and political context and make interdisciplinary connections with print culture and information studies.

Essays should be organized in a similar form to articles published in Libraries: Culture, History, and Society, and conform to the latest edition of the Chicago Manual of Style. Papers should not exceed thirty-five typewritten, double-spaced pages (including endnotes and references).

Submissions and Selection

Applicants must submit their manuscripts electronically. Applications must be received by February 20, 2025. The application deadline is firm; submissions received after the deadline will not be forwarded to the committee.

Please upload your manuscripts electronically via the web form:  https://airtable.com/shrYdO92X6tfTW3oe

Interested applicants can direct inquiries to Rachel Trnka, Justin Winsor Award Committee Chair, rachel.trnka@ucf.edu, please use LHRT Winsor Award in the subject line.