Launch a Scholar, Shape the Future | Library Research Scholars Program

At its heart, the Library Research Scholars Program is about turning student potential into real, measurable achievement. Many San Jose State University students are eager to engage in meaningful research, but without structured mentorship, paid opportunities, or clear entry points, that potential too often goes untapped. The Library Research Scholars Program exists to change that by creating a clear, supported pathway for students to become confident, capable researchers.

Since its launch in 2019, the Library Research Scholars Program has demonstrated what’s possible when students are given time, guidance, and trust. To date, the program has supported 16 student scholars, each gaining hands-on research experience alongside faculty librarians. These students didn’t just participate, they excelled. One scholar won the 2024 SJSU Student Research Competition, along with an Honorable Mention at the 2024 CSU Student Research Competition, proving that when students are invested in, they can compete and achieve at the highest levels.

This work matters now more than ever. Today’s students face increasing financial pressures that limit their ability to pursue unpaid or extracurricular research experiences. At the same time, the society demands graduates who can think critically, evaluate information responsibly, and contribute original ideas. In a world of misinformation and rapid change, strong research skills are an essential, non-negotiable component of responsible citizenship. The Library Research Scholars Program ensures students move beyond simply consuming information to actively learning how knowledge is created, tested, and shared.

The program’s success is driven by strong, student-centered leadership. For the past two years, the Library Research Scholars Program has been coordinated by Dr. Anamika Megwalu, whose philosophy centers on treating students as active research partners, not student assistants. As a faculty librarian and experienced researcher, Dr. Megwalu recognizes students as emerging scholars and often they become co-authors and co-presenters, gaining confidence, ownership, and a strong scholarly identity.

With an established history, proven outcomes, and a dedicated team of faculty librarians, the Library Research Scholars Program is a model that works. Your support makes it possible for more students to engage in faculty-guided research and develop critical professional skills without financial hardship.

This is more than a program. It’s a launchpad for student scholars and your support makes it possible.