LHRT is accepting entries for the 2021 Justin Winsor Library History Essay Award

CHICAGO — Entries are now being solicited for the Justin Winsor Library History Essay Award, presented annually by the American Library Association’s Library History Round Table (LHRT). The award recognizes the best library history essay written in English and is named in honor of the distinguished 19th century librarian, historian, and bibliographer, Justin Winsor, who was also ALA’s first president. The selected author will receive a certificate and $500 cash award, as well as an invitation to have the winning essay considered for publication in the official LHRT publication Libraries: Culture, History, and Society. If the winning essay is accepted for publication, additional revisions may be required. Applicants need not be members of the Library History Round Table.

For a list of previous winners, click here.

Selection Criteria

Manuscripts submitted should not be previously published, previously submitted for publication, or under consideration for publication or another award. 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 form similar to that of articles published in Libraries: Culture, History, and Society, with footnotes, spelling and punctuation conforming to the latest edition of the Chicago Manual of Style. Papers should not exceed 35 typewritten, double-spaced pages (plus footnotes and bibliography).

Submissions and Selection

Applicants must submit their essays electronically. Name and other information identifying the author should appear only on a separate cover page. Essays must be received by Feb. 1, 2021.  The application deadline is firm and any submissions received after February 1 will not be considered.  Receipt will be confirmed within four business days.

Submit manuscripts to:

Cindy Mediavilla, Chair
LHRT Justin Winsor Award Committee
[email protected]

Please use subject line: LHRT: Justin Winsor Award