Aurora, IL — The Aurora Public Library District is proud to announce that three of its staff members have been selected as 2025 ALA Spectrum Scholars by the American Library Association. This prestigious national honor supports the advancement of diversity in the library profession through scholarships and professional development.
The recipients — Mariana Guerrero, Shaheen Kapambwe and Zeel Parikh — were chosen for their commitment to equitable access, community engagement, and leadership in library services. Each will receive a scholarship to support their graduate studies in library and information science.
Mariana has been part of the Aurora Public Library District for over 13 years serving in various roles such as Library Assistant, Spanish Programmer and Elementary School Services Coordinator. She plans to continue her MLIS at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Shaheen joined APLD in 2024 serving in the Library Assistant role within the Adult Services department and will be attending Simmons University.
Zeel has been with APLD for 2 years as a Library Assistant and continues to attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
“This is an incredible achievement for our team and a reflection of their passion for inclusive service,” said Michaela Haberkern, Executive Director of the Aurora Public Library District. “We’re thrilled to see their dedication recognized at the national level.”
The ALA Spectrum Scholarship Program has supported more than 1,300 scholars since its founding in 1997. The addition of these three awardees reinforces Aurora Public Library District’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and the future of librarianship.