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The iSchool at Maryland is pleased to announce that its Study Abroad course to Nicaragua will be offered again in January 2011. LBSC708S – International Opportunities in Information Studies: Destination Nicaragua offers students a short-term opportunity to gain experience in providing library services in a setting outside the United States. The 3-credit graduate course, which will be offered during the 2011 Winter Term, will again focus on San Juan del Sur Biblioteca Móvil, the first public lending library in Nicaragua (http://www.sjdsbiblioteca.com/home.htm). Established by volunteers in 2001, the library currently serves more than 5000 registered patrons in San Juan del Sur and in 35 rural communities with over 12,500 books in Spanish and English. The course is open to students in the College of Information Studies, graduates of the program, students from other library and information schools, and individuals interested in education and library development in Central America. Spanish language skills are welcomed, but not required. For registration information, visit the course web site at http://www.international.umd.edu/studyabroad/5970. The last day to apply for the class is October 7, 2011. Following two on-campus course meetings (January 10-11), which will focus on the history, culture, economics, politics and demographics of Nicaragua and the challenges of education and library development in Central America, students will travel to Managua and San Juan del Sur. While in Nicaragua from January 12-21, 2011, students will visit libraries, schools, and community agencies; complete volunteer service projects in local communities; plan and carry out a Book Festival at the Palacio Nationale de la Cultura in Managua; and meet and work with members of the Nicaraguan library, education, and publishing communities. Dr. Ann Carlson Weeks will again be the instructor for the course. Dr. Weeks is a founding director of the International Children’s Digital Library (www.childrenslibrary.org) and has had extensive international consulting and speaking experience. For a syllabus for the 2011 course or additional information about Study Abroad opportunities offered through the iSchool, contact Dr. Weeks at 301- 405-2060 or at [log in to unmask]