The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (The Bulletin) has announced the 2025 Blue Ribbon awards, its annual selection of the best works in children's and young adult literature. Blue Ribbons are chosen annually by a committee of reviewers for The Bulletin and represent what they believe to be outstanding examples of youth literature.

When BSIS+DS student Colin Bertrand steps onto the field with the Marching Illini, he isn't just performing; he's continuing a passion he's nurtured since childhood. He first encountered the Marching Illini as a young fan attending games, and the experience stuck with him. By the time he joined his high school drumline, his love for it had only grown. 

iSchool Affiliate Professor Sara Benson, copyright librarian and associate professor at the University Library, has been awarded a Fulbright Specialist Grant. 

PhD student Gladys Kemboi has been awarded the Knowledge Manager of the Year Award from CILIP, the UK's library and information association. This is an international award that recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution and excellence in the discipline of knowledge management through their work and professionalism.

The iSchool at Illinois is pleased to announce the publication of Library Trends 74 (2) "Libraries, Library Services, and Persons Living with Dementia." Authors present research on the growing field of library services for people living with dementia and their caregivers, while a number of articles detail current library services that include reading, physical resource provision, and reminiscence.

The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) has awarded Christine Thuy Minh Nguyen the Julia C. Blixrud Scholarship to attend the 2026 ARL President’s Institute. Christine is a master of science in library and information science (LIS) student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign specializing in digital archives and data stewardship. She currently serves as a graduate assistant in the Research Data Service Unit of the University of Illinois Library, where she has developed a strong commitment to inclusive user experience and accessible digital design by leading a project to innovate change in current technical workflows.

Associate Professor Colin Rhinesmith has been elected to serve on the iSchools Board of Directors for 2026–2027. The board consists of six general members; Rhinesmith will serve as one of three members representing the North American region. As a member, he will assist in developing the strategic direction of the iSchools organization, which includes over 130 universities worldwide. His experience working with the iSchools includes serving as a conference reviewer for multiple iConferences and co-chairing the iSchools Community Informatics Group. 

Kyu-Been Chun joined the iSchool this month as a coordinator of student and academic affairs. In his new role, he will support PhD students with their academic affairs, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance they need throughout their doctoral journey.

The iSchool at Illinois is pleased to announce that The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books has released their highly anticipated 2025 gift guide, just in time for holiday shopping.

As a middle school student in Accra Newtown, Ghana, Fatihi Mohammed put his education on hold. Through renewed focus and efforts, the student has shown remarkable academic growth and is now working toward his MSLIS degree at the University of Illinois. Mohammed is receiving support for his studies through the Anna Mae Koval Scholarship Fund at the iSchool.