The Library Prize for Undergraduate Research, sponsored by the IU South Bend Library and Media Services, rewards and celebrates excellence in undergraduate research projects. The annual Library Prize is designed to honor students who demonstrate sophisticated research skill by incorporating information found through the library’s resources into original scholarship. While consideration is given to the product of the research, the prize focuses on the research process and application of information literacy: the demonstration of library research skills, adept use of library resources, and the reflection upon the strategies utilized to investigate a research problem.
A monetary prize of $500 will be awarded yearly for the most outstanding undergraduate research project. If there are no deserving research projects in a given year, the Prize will not be awarded.
Criteria
Submissions will be judged on how well they meet the following criteria:
- Depth and breadth in the use of library collections, including, but not limited to, print resources, online databases and Web resources, primary resources, and materials in other media.
- Effective application of the principles of information literacy by:
- Determining information needs
- Evaluating and analyzing information
- Managing, organizing, and synthesizing information
- Communicating information in formats appropriate to an academic audience
- Making responsible use of information by appropriately documenting sources
- Evidence of significant personal learning and an understanding of the process of research and inquiry.
- Content of the research project.
The judging panel is composed of IU South Bend librarians, faculty and staff.
Required elements:
- Application form [MS Word, PDF]. (For group projects, identify the explicit role and contribution of each member).
- A 500-700 word essay [Essay Tips] describing and reflecting upon your research strategy and the use and evaluation of library resources.
- A supporting statement [MS Word, PDF] from the faculty member in the class or activity for which the research project was completed.
- A final version of the research project including a complete bibliography in a standard citation format.
- The syllabus for the course for which the research project was completed.
Application process:
All written components of your application should be word-processed. Do not use staples or bind your project. Incomplete and/or late applications will not be accepted. Applications become the property of the IU South Bend Libraries and will not be returned.
Have questions? Check out our FAQ.
For questions about the Prize or the process, please contact Michele Russo, Dean of Library Services.
Please submit your application packet by February 2, 2009 to the Schurz Library Administrative Offices, LM304, Indiana University South Bend, P.O. Box 7111, South Bend, IN 46634-7111.
Important Dates:
Deadline: Feb. 2, 2009
Winners will be notified no later than March 19, 2009
Past Award Winner:
2008 Jennifer Wise [MS Word, PDF]
2007 Maria Nakis [MS Word, PDF]
