The UNC School of Information and Library Science (SILS) has three international summer seminars planned for 2020, including a brand new course focused on libraries and librarianship in Spain.

SILS Assistant Professor Maggie Melo will lead “Books in Barcelona – Examining Library Science in Spain,” scheduled for May 18-May 30.

This new seminar joins “Information and Computer Science in Dublin: From Startups to Silicon Docks” with SILS Professor Paul Jones and “Global Study & Reflection: Libraries and Archives of Prague” with Professor Joanne Gard Marshall.

All seminars are available for 3 hours of credit from SILS and are open to UNC undergraduate and graduate students, as well as graduate students from other universities and practicing professionals. Registration is open now through March 2 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Melo said the Barcelona seminar will offer an enriching experience for students and professionals, giving them a chance to broaden their understanding of global librarianship as well as their cultural awareness.

“Barcelona is a leading global city with influence in education, media, science, and culture,” she said.  “Specifically, we thought Barcelona would be a fitting city to study library science because it extends a unique historical and modern perspective on information services. Library science in Barcelona spans across different regions and eras, and this is reflected in the city’s libraries and institutions.”

SILS students can apply for one of five $1,000 scholarships offered by the School to help offset expenses related to the seminars. Eligible students must take the seminar for credit and be enrolled at SILS for the fall 2020 semester. Complete and submit the scholarship application by January 31 to be considered for one of the awards.

Questions about the scholarships or the seminars can be directed to SILS Programs Officer Shirley Parker at smparke@email.unc.edu.