Access to Learning Award 2007
The deadline for applications is 31 December 2006
Document 5 of 26 
Access to Learning Awards 2007.pdf 243.72 KB
If your library or similar organisation provides access to information using computers and the Internet free of charge to users, the International Network for the Availability of Scientific Publications (INASP) would like to hear your story.
INASP is the administrator of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s annual Access to Learning Award. This award recognises excellence in providing access to information through computers, at no cost to the user. The recipient of the 2007 award will receive up to US $1 million.
The deadline for applications for the 2007 award is 31 December 2006.
Obtaining Application Forms
A Word version of the application form (151 kB) is available on the Internet. The application forms are only available in English and must be completed in English.
Application forms may also be requested by:
phone (+44) 20 8997 3274
fax (+44) 20 8810 9795
e-mail cpriestley@inasp.info, or
by writing to the following address:
INASP
58 St Aldates,
Oxford, OX1 1ST,
UK
Eligibility and Selection
What is the philosophy behind the award?
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is committed to supporting public access to information through no-cost computer and Internet usage in public libraries. This award is the foundation's way of recognizing innovative and successful initiatives that connect people to the information that they require in a timely and effective manner.
What kinds of institutions should apply?
Libraries or similar organisations, outside the United States, which provide no-cost public access are invited to apply. Preference will be given to institutions that the foundation has not funded in the past. Previous recipients of the Access to Learning Award and libraries in the USA are not eligible to apply. The foundation particularly encourages libraries in resource-poor countries or those working with disadvantaged communities to apply.
How is "no-cost public access" defined?
A library or similar organisation offers no-cost public access if it allows all members of the public, from children to senior citizens, to use its facilities free of charge (without membership or Internet fees). Organisations should show how they make information technology available to the public without charge and what kinds of technology training they offer to the public and staff. Preference will be given to organisations that reach out to socially excluded groups, such as poor or disabled patrons, or those from minority communities.
What is considered innovative?
A programme is considered innovative if it provides access to information through technology and services that were previously unavailable to the community. Programmes of any size or scope are considered.
Is this a grant application?
No. The award is a recognition or prize for work accomplished, in progress, or completed. It is not a grant application.
Can institutions that applied previously apply again?
Yes, libraries or similar organisations that are eligible are invited to apply again. However, previous award recipients may not reapply.
How is the award money to be used?
The Access to Learning Award is a reward for work accomplished by an organisation. We require only that the funds be used to further expand efforts to provide access to information to the public at no cost.
How is the award recipient selected?
An international advisory committee of librarians and information technology experts reviews applications and selects three candidates for consideration by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The foundation selects the final recipient.
Deadline
Completed applications should be sent to INASP and must be postmarked or emailed by 31 December 2006.
For more information read the attached brochure or visit the INASP website.