Location:

Prague, Czech Republic

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

MayMester Intersession, Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Since 2002, SILS and Prague's Charles University have offered library students and professionals a chance to journey to the heart of the Czech Republic. Participants in this program will enjoy lectures and tours related to librarianship in a country that deals with a history of monarchy, empire, Communism, and the meeting of east and west. Participants experience firsthand how the democratization of the Czech Republic, formerly a communist state, has affected the accessibility of information, in both print and electronic forms. Students enrolled in a library science program can take the seminar for three (3) hours of graduate credit. To be notified of when registration opens for 2016, please e-mail.

Tour historic libraries, castles, and museums in Prague and the surrounding Czech countryside. A series of presentations is supplemented by a tour of Old Town, Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square; a bus tour of historic Prague, including Mala Strana, Nove Mesto, Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter; visits to the Klementinum (National Library), the town of Kromeriz to see a castle library, the Parliament Library, and a tour of Strahov Monastery and its libraries. There is also ample free time to allow participants to explore on their own or to travel further afield in the Czech Republic or other nearby countries.

The registration fee for participants covers housing, instruction and a few meals. Most meals and airfare to and from the seminar are not included. Early registration is encouraged.

Setting Description:

Participants stay in the Pinelli Hotel, Residence Bologna located in the heart of Old Town and only steps from the famous Charles Bridge. The hotel is located very close to a number of restaurants and stores. SILS will take care of lodging arrangements. Students do not need to make separate reservations unless they want to stay in Prague before or after the seminar.

Cost:

Registration for 2016 has yet to be determined. 2015 costs were as follows: Shared accommodation (roommate): $4,050; Single accommodation (no roommate): $4,500; Participant plus guest: $6,800. A guest is defined as someone who accompanies you on the program (usually a spouse) but does not participate in any of the instructional sessions and many tours.