The CALA Experience
CALAs work half-time positions of twenty hours per week and are assigned to departments throughout the UNC-Chapel Hill University Libraries, including:
- Undergraduate Library
- User Experience (UX)
- Sloane Art Library
- Kenan Science Library
- Technical Services
- Health Sciences Library
- Software Development
- Wilson Special Collections Library
- University Archives
- Rare Book Collection
Values of the Program
What we are most looking for in CALA applicants is passion and enthusiasm. See the “How to Apply” section for a more specific list of criteria that we use to review applications.
Benefits
CALAs receive tuition support, coverage of fees, a paid stipend, and paid health insurance. The value of this support over a two-year period is estimated at approximately $90,000.
CALAs also receive:
- Career strategy sessions
- Mentoring
- Networking and professional development opportunities
Additional benefits include:
- Membership in the Library Association at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Paid registration for the annual LAUNC-CH conference
- Opportunities for a professional development travel stipend
How to Apply
There is no separate application process. CALAs are nominated by SILS from the accepted pool of students.
CALAs are selected based on:
- graduate school application materials
- a statement of interest
- video interviews with the Co-Directors of the program, Library staff, and CALA supervisors
Selection Criteria
- Diversity of experience
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Enthusiasm
- Adaptability
- Service ethic
- Willingness to learn
- Project management
- Interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated initiative