CORAL is excited to offer up to $500 in reimbursement to support librarians and paraprofessionals pursuing professional development opportunities. Whether you’re attending a conference, workshop, or training program, this award is here to help you expand your skills, network, and impact.
To qualify for the Professional Development Award:
Your employing institution must be a CORAL member in good standing.
You must work in a library.
You cannot be a current CORAL officer or library director.
Applicants who received travel funds within the last two years are ineligible.
Eligible expenses include:
Tuition and registration fees
Lodging at a conference hotel
Meals, local mileage, airfare, parking, and ground transportation
Activities must occur within the award year. Extensions may be requested for extenuating circumstances, and reimbursements will follow state rates. Refer to the state reimbursement schedule for guidance.
Applications will be scored out of 10 points. Stand out by:
Submitting a complete application (1 point)
Sharing a compelling reason why this opportunity matters to you (1 point)
Explaining the benefits to your personal and professional growth (up to 4 points)
Detailing how you’ll share your knowledge with the CORAL community (up to 4 points)
Awardees will showcase their learning within one month of the event by completing a portfolio item. Choose from:
🎥 Create a 5-10 minute video using Loom
🗣️ Deliver a 5-minute PechaKucha-style presentation on Zoom
🖼️ Design a virtual poster using PowerPoint or Canva