The Hesburgh Libraries invites submissions from undergraduate students for the 2026 University of Notre Dame Library Research Award.
This annual competition awards prizes in several categories to undergraduate students who demonstrate, through an 800-word essay, excellence in using library research skills and resources for their research projects, course assignments, and creative endeavors.
Students from every discipline are invited to submit a brief essay describing how they used library resources for a project or assignment completed during summer 2025, fall 2025, or spring 2026. Library resources include online catalogs and search tools, digital and print resources, library collections, people, spaces, services and more.
All winners receive a cash prize, are featured on news.nd.edu and other University websites, and are featured in our Library Research Award Winners Circle.
First Year Research
- 1st Place - $1,500
- 2nd Place - $750
General Research
- 1st Place - $1,500
- 2nd Place - $750
Capstone or Thesis Research
- 1st Place - $2,500
- 2nd Place - $1,200
In addition to these main award categories, specialized awards may be given for exemplary work in digital scholarship.
Deadline for Submissions
Sunday, April 12, at 11:59pm (EDT)
How to Submit
Step 1: Write an 800–1,000 word essay in English about the library resources used in your research or creative work. Your essay must be about a project for a credit-bearing course or supervised research project during summer 2025, fall 2025 or spring 2026.
Step 2: Ask the appropriate instructor, faculty mentor, or advisor to submit a recommendation letter in support of your research or creative work.
Step 3: Complete and send your submission by Sunday, April 12, at 11:59pm (EDT).
Students can learn more about the award and submission guidelines at https://library-research-award.library.nd.edu/
Past Winners
View past award winners in the Winners Circle and read the accompanying news story on the award website.