The Library and Information Technology Association and OCLC have awarded the USC Libraries' Giao Luong Baker their 2016 Minority Scholarship in Library and Information Technology.
The annual scholarship promotes diversity within the library profession by supporting master's-level library school students who hail from under-represented groups. Baker, who serves as digital imaging manager for the USC Digital Library, will apply the scholarship toward her library and information science studies at the University of North Texas.
The official announcement of Baker's award cited her accomplished career at the USC Libraries:
The Committee immediately recognized Baker as being exceptionally accomplished in her career, already demonstrating great promise. She has actively participated in professional activities outside of her primary responsibilities in both the University of South California Library and professional associations. One of her colleagues said, “I have never seen her be anything other than enthusiastic and helpful when dealing with me or with others. Her genuine excitement in her job is infectious and brings out the best in every interaction.” The Scholarship Committee is honored to select Baker for this well-deserved award.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Baker is the Digital Imaging Manager at the University of Southern California Libraries, where she enjoys working with a dedicated staff of students who assist her in building digital collections for the USC Digital Library. she also serves on the board of the Los Angeles City Historical Society and is a member of the USC Libraries Innovation Council. The prospect of affecting the representation of minority communities in digital and cultural realms is an energizing prospect for her.
To learn more about the scholarship, see the announcement on the American Library Association website.