Knowledge River facts for kids

Knowledge River is a special program at the University of Arizona in Tucson. It helps train people to become experts in information and libraries. This program focuses on understanding and serving Latino and Native American communities.

Knowledge River helps future librarians and information specialists learn about the unique needs and cultures of these groups. It also encourages libraries to offer services that are respectful and helpful to everyone. The program is seen as a great example of how to bring more Latino and Native American students into library and information studies. It does this by working with the university, libraries, and the local community.

Becoming a Knowledge River Scholar

Each year, Knowledge River chooses a group of students to be "Knowledge River Scholars." These scholars get help with their school costs, like money for tuition. They also receive extra help with their studies and advice from experts.

A big part of the financial help comes from "graduate assistantships." This means students work part-time in libraries or other information places. This work gives them real-world experience while they are still studying. When they finish the program, Knowledge River Scholars earn a special master's degree in Information Resources and Library Science. This degree is approved by the American Library Association, which is a big deal in the library world.

Making a Difference with Knowledge River

Librarians and information specialists are very important today. They work in many places, like colleges, businesses, schools, and public libraries. If you graduate from Knowledge River, you can help people in your community use information and technology. This can help them learn new things and improve their lives.

You can also bring important cultural ideas and different viewpoints to places that might not have them. One famous graduate is Allison Boucher Krebs. She was a leader in groups that help Native American archives, libraries, and museums.

How Knowledge River Started

The Knowledge River program began in 2001. The University of Arizona's School of Information received a large grant of $500,000 from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Science. This money was given to help more Hispanic and Native American people become librarians.

At that time, only a small number of librarians were Hispanic (less than 5%). Even fewer were Native American (less than 1%). The goal of Knowledge River was to increase these numbers. Brooke Sheldon, who was the director of the school then, said they would work with experts to make the program and its studies even better.

Growing and Expanding

In 2011, Knowledge River received another big award. This time, it was $844,965 from the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarians IMLS Grant Program. This money helped 33 more students join the program. It also helped improve the program's website and online presence, making it easier for people to find information about Knowledge River.