Clearing Up the Confusion: Understanding Local Scholarship Opportunities As They Relate to the Library
Each year, the Eccles-Lesher Memorial Library receives questions from high school seniors and families asking about “the library scholarship.” We want to take a moment to clear up the confusion and point you in the right direction!
First: The Library Itself Does Not Offer a Scholarship
While our building is named after local philanthropists Ralph M. Eccles and Margaret W. Lesher, the library does not operate or award any scholarships. We are a separate nonprofit organization and must apply for funding every year, just like other groups in the area.
Second: The Lesher Foundation Scholarship (Separate from the Library)
The Margaret W. & Irwin W. Lesher Foundation, a completely separate entity from the library, does offer scholarships to graduating seniors from Union High School. This long-standing scholarship is administered by Scholarship America, and full details can be found here:
Third: The Friends of the Library Scholarship (Also Separate, but Closely Tied)
Since 2023, our Friends of the Library group (a volunteer-run nonprofit that supports the library through fundraising and advocacy) has offered a small scholarship to a graduating senior from Union High School and/or Karns City High School, which serves East Brady in our library’s service area.
In 2026, applicants will be required to have a library card. The application often asks students for ideas about improving the library, so being familiar with our programs and services really helps.
More info on the Friends of the Library Scholarship is typically shared with the schools in early spring, so keep an eye out through your guidance office or announcements.
We hope this information helps clarify any confusion the community might have. Please share this information with friends and family who might benefit from it. Thanks!
Eccles-Lesher Memorial Library 