The purpose of the Beard Scholarship is to provide financial assistance toward completing a MasterÔÇÖs degree in library science for candidates who show strong potential to inspire and motivate their peers in the profession and in professional associations. The recipient must be completing the senior year in an accredited college or university or be a graduate of such an institution or accepted or enrolled as a student in a masterÔÇÖs degree program at a library school accredited by the American Library Association. Students who have already begun their programs are eligible to apply. They must agree to work for one year following graduation from library school in a library-related capacity in Georgia, or agree to pay back a prorated amount of the award plus interest. Repayment must be made within a two year period. Two letters of reference, transcripts, and proof of admissions must be e-mailed directly to the Scholarship Committee vice-chair. The committee will choose two top candidates, preferably applicants demonstrating involvement in a professional library association (e.g., GLA, ALA, SELA) or evidence of library leadership. Residents of Georgia will be given preference.