The University Libraries, Northern Illinois University, invite applications for the Horatio Alger Fellowship for the Study of American Popular Culture. Funding is available to scholars who will be using materials from the libraries’ major holdings in American popular culture. These holdings include the Albert Johannsen Collection of more than 50,000 dime novels, and the nation’s preeminent collections related to Horatio Alger, Jr., and Edward Stratemeyer. Many other authors are represented. Topics which could draw on the collections’ strengths might include the plight of urban children, image of the American West in popular literature, widespread use of pseudonyms, and stereotypical portrayals. Preference will be given to applicants who signify an interest in conducting research related to Horatio Alger, Jr. The fellowship award consists of a $2,000 stipend, and may be used between July 1 and December 31, 2008. Deadline: May 31, 2008.

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