KU Libraries accepting applications for research, teaching grant opportunities focused on "Generous Thinking"

The University of Kansas Libraries are pleased to announce several research and teaching grant opportunities for KU faculty and academic staff. In conjunction with Kathleen Fitzpatrick’s upcoming Jan. 27 presentation to the KU community, the Research Sprints and Information Literacy mini-grant committees welcome applications that expand upon Fitzpatrick’s vision of “generous thinking.” 

Fitzpatrick is the author of “Generous Thinking: A Radical Approach to Saving the University.” She invites academics to listen to their greater communities and build constructive, critical and collaborative relationships with the public – demonstrating how higher education advances common public good.  

Research Sprints offer faculty and academic staff the opportunity to collaborate with a team of expert librarians for one week on a research or instruction project that incorporates Fitzpatrick’s ideas. Recipients will receive a $1,000 stipend. The 2021 Research Sprints will be held virtually May 17-21, 2021. Applications will be accepted through March 5. Apply to Research Sprints.

Information Literacy mini-grants, in the amount of $500, are available to faculty and academic staff who commit to working with a team of librarians to redesign an assignment in an undergraduate course to meet an information literacy learning outcome. In partnership with librarians and library staff, faculty will explore ideas for assignment redesign to deepen students’ information literacy skills, while also considering Fitzpatrick’s vision for the future of higher education. Applications will be accepted through April 2.

KU Libraries will host an information session on the Research Sprints and Information Literacy mini-grants programs on Thursday, Feb. 4., 3-4 p.m. Please RSVP at researchsprints@ku.edu to receive the Zoom meeting details.

To learn more about the “generous thinking” model join KU Libraries and The Commons for a lecture by Kathleen Fitzpatrick at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 27. The event is free, but registration is required.