An Act to establish a Master of Library Science assistance program

This bill creates a grant program to help public librarians in Massachusetts earn a Master of Library Science degree. The Massachusetts Board of Higher Education would manage the program, offering grants that cover full tuition for eligible librarians who are currently working in public libraries and planning to attend in-state colleges or approved partner institutions. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding academic, leadership, and extracurricular achievements, which the board will define through new rules. If passed, the program would provide financial assistance to encourage public library staff to pursue advanced education while continuing their work.