Winter Institute Scholarship Application Process Opens

On Wednesday, August 19, the American Booksellers Association launched its first-ever online application process for booksellers interested in submitting their names for an opportunity to win a Winter Institute publisher-sponsored scholarship. The 2016 Winter Institute, ABA’s 11th (Wi11), will be held from Saturday evening, January 23, through Tuesday, January 26, in Denver, Colorado.

Booksellers will also be able to submit their names for an extra chance at winning a Wi11 scholarship by dropping off their business cards at the ABA booth at one of the fall regional trade shows.

Note: Only booksellers from ABA member stores that did not have a Winter Institute scholarship winner in 2014 or 2015 are eligible to apply.

A record-breaking number of publisher-sponsored scholarships will be awarded for 2016, as well as scholarships in memory of former ABA CEO Avin Mark Domnitz and to foster diversity. Scholarships will cover the cost of the conference fee, up to four nights’ accommodations at the host hotel, and transportation expenses up to $400.

The short online scholarship form will provide ABA with information about why the applicant would like to attend Winter Institute 11; whether they previously attended; and if they have a bookselling-related skill, expertise, or specialty that they would be willing to share at an education session. The form will remain open until October 26, 2015.

An application demonstrates a bookseller’s interest in receiving a scholarship but does not guarantee selection. Winners will be contacted directly by ABA and will be announced in November 2015.

Wi11 event registration and hotel reservations are scheduled to open on Wednesday afternoon, September 9. ABA member booksellers will be notified via e-mail when registration opens.

Apply for Wi11 scholarship here. The form will remain open until October 26, 2015.