Bedavati Devi Best Emerging Women Librarian Award

Bedavati Devi Best Emerging Women Librarian Award

1. Introduction (About the Award)

This award was instituted by Dr. Jyotika Devi, President of WLAA, in commemoration of her late mother-in-law, Bedavati Devi, as a heartfelt token of appreciation for her continuous and unwavering support. Bedavati Devi was a deeply religious woman. She got married at the age of just twelve, while she was still studying in primary school. Although she had to marry at a very young age, she was born and raised in a highly educated family. Perhaps because of this upbringing, she always made an effort to educate herself. She read many religious books in Assamese literature and also wrote two books on Naam (devotional chanting of God's name).

2. Eligibility Criteria

Gender: Open exclusively to women LIS professionals.

Age: The nominee/applicant must be up to 50 years of age as of the submission deadline.

Membership: Must be an active member of WLAA at the time of nomination.

Employment: Must be currently working as a professional in the LIS sector.

3. Nomination Categories

Category A: Self-Nomination

i.        Eligible professionals may apply directly for the award.

ii.      The applicant must submit a Statement of Purpose (SoP) (max 500 words) highlighting their professional achievements and why they believe they are a fit for the "Emerging Librarian" title.

iii.    Must provide two properly sealed and signed recommendations who can vouch for their work.

Category B: Nomination by Others

i.        A colleague, head of an institution, or a professional peer may nominate an eligible candidate.

ii.      A nominator can nominate only one person.

iii.    The nominator must provide a Justification Letter (max 500 words) detailing the nominee’s impact on the profession.

iv.    The nominator can be of any gender or nationality, provided the nominee meets the eligibility criteria.

4. Submission Procedure

i.        Format: Nominations must be submitted in the prescribed format (Form A for Self-Nomination / Form B for Nomination by Others).

ii.      Channel: Send via email with subject line “Nomination for Bedavati Devi Award 2026 - [Nominee Name]”. to [Insert Email Address] or upload via the Google form (link is to be inserted)

5. Mandatory Attachments

The following documents must accompany the nomination form:

i.        Identification: Proof of Age and Citizenship (Aadhar Card/PAN Card/Passport).

ii.      WLAA Membership: Proof of active membership status.

iii.    Professional Portfolio: A list of five best research articles, major library projects implemented, or significant professional innovations.

iv.    Recommendations:

v.      For Self-Nomination: Two recommendation letters from LIS experts.

vi.    For Nomination by Others: One recommendation letter (in addition to the Nominator’s justification).

vii.  Career Highlights: Self-attested copies of grants, awards, or certificates received (Optional).

6. Important Terms

i.        Deceased Persons: Cannot be nominated. In the event of the unfortunate demise of a selected awardee before the ceremony, the plaque and certificate will be given to the heir, but the cash prize will be withheld.

ii.      Disqualification: Any form of canvassing or lobbying for the award will lead to immediate disqualification.

iii.    Finality: The decision of the WLAA Award Committee is final and binding. No legal challenges or correspondence regarding the decision will be entertained.