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OWHL Scholars Program: Frequently Asked Questions

OWHL SCHOLARS PROGRAM

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR THE APPLICATION

When is the application due? 
  • No later than 5:00 PM on January 30, 2026 (no exceptions).
 
How many students are you accepting into the program? 
  • Up to 5 projects.
 
How long will the application take? 
  • That depends. Please read through all the application components before the due date so that you can put your best foot forward. The application has questions that will take time. In general, we recommend you dedicate sufficient time to fully answering all questions.
 
What do I do if I do not have a title for my project? 

  • Your application is a pitch! If you are accepted, you will do lots of research on your topic. That process may change the title of your project. Consider this title a “working” title.

 

Who will decide if my application is accepted? 

  • The Selection Committee includes members from the library team and is headed by the Program Director, Ms. Torres Hoven.

 
Do I have to meet with a librarian before I submit my application?
  • No. However, it will increase the chances of you being accepted into the program because we can help you strengthen your application. Most of our past OWHL Scholars met with a librarian ahead of time.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROJECT & PROGRAM

Can I see examples of other OWHL Scholar projects?

  • Yes. Please contact the Program Director, Ms. Torres Hoven to inquire about access to past Scholars' final projects. You can also view last year's Scholars' presentations on MediaSpace by searching "OWHL Scholars." The 2025-2026 Scholar presentations will be available after our Symposium on February 20, 2026.

Does my final project have to be a research paper?

  • All OWHL Scholars will work with their mentors to decide the best form for their final project and how best to present the project to the PA community. Some students may choose to author a scholarly paper, while others may take a different path, such as a graphic novel, Zine, children's book, board game, art exhibit, podcast series, oral history, or more! There are many different formats that we encourage. Scholarship does not always have to be a paper.

Is there an alternative to a 30-minute presentation? 

  • It depends. All OWHL Scholars will present their final project in one form or another to the PA Community. However, your mentor, and the Program Director, can help you think creatively about this presentation.

Do I get to select my library mentor?

  • No. The Selection Committee will match projects with the appropriate library mentor. 

Have more questions?