The De Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund grants travel support for current library school students or recent graduates from either the University of Rhode Island or Simmons University to attend a professional library conference. The scholarship was established in memory of longtime member and former RILA President Derryl ("De") Johnson to help promote active participation in the field of librarianship by providing an opportunity to the newest colleagues in our profession to attend and participate in library conferences.

Derryl R. "De" Johnson passed away on March 26, 2005.  De knew from an early age that she wanted to be a librarian. She was a former Director of the Marian J. Mohr Memorial Library in Johnston, RI, from 1994-2002 and a librarian of the highest caliber. In 1982, De founded C.D. Research, Ltd, a research service, after having worked at the Providence Public Library for many years. It quickly became one of the leading research companies in Rhode Island, providing harried professionals information beyond what a ready-reference inquiry would collect. While at the Mohr Library, De contributed to greatly expanding programs and services.  She left citing health reasons, having been diagnosed with breast cancer a year before. She continued to work toward a PhD and remained an active force in the area library community as President of the Rhode Island Library Association from 2003-2005.  De Johnson was known by many in the community and by librarians all over Rhode Island for her creativity, energy, warmth, and humor.

How to Apply

The De Johnson Scholarship Application Form is currently being revised and will be available soon.

How to Donate

Rhode Island Library Association
PO Box 6765
Providence, Rhode Island  02940

Online payments can be made using the form below.  Please select "De Johnson Scholarship Fund"