Researchers, doctoral candidates, authors, and scholars can now apply for the International Youth Library Fellowship Programme 2027 in Germany. This prestigious fully funded research fellowship offers international applicants the opportunity to conduct research at one of the world’s largest collections of children’s and young adult literature.

Hosted by the International Youth Library in Munich, the fellowship supports academic research in children’s literature, illustration, publishing history, literary translation, reading culture, and related fields. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of €1,300, access to outstanding research resources, and the opportunity to collaborate with experts in an international academic environment.

Whether you are pursuing doctoral research or working as an early-career scholar, this fellowship provides an excellent opportunity to advance your research while living in Germany.

Fellowship Summary

About the International Youth Library Fellowship Programme

The International Youth Library Fellowship Programme is funded by the Bavarian Ministry for Science and Arts and is intended for researchers whose work requires access to the library’s exceptional collection of approximately 650,000 books in more than 260 languages.

The programme promotes international academic collaboration by supporting research related to children’s and young adult literature, literary translation, illustration, publishing history, reading culture, intercultural storytelling, and book history.

During the fellowship, participants receive a dedicated workspace, professional support from experienced librarians, and access to rare research materials that are difficult to find elsewhere.

Degree Level

The fellowship welcomes applications from:

• Graduates
• Master’s Graduates
• Doctoral Candidates
• PhD Students
• PhD Graduates
• Early-Career Researchers
• Authors
• Independent Scholars

Eligible Research Fields

Applicants may conduct research in areas including:

• Children’s Literature
• Young Adult Literature
• Comparative Literature
• Literary Translation
• Illustration Studies
• Publishing Studies
• Reading Culture
• Book History
• Cultural Studies
• Intercultural Storytelling
• Education
• Library and Information Science

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive the following benefits:

• Monthly stipend of €1,300
• Research stay in Munich for 6 weeks to 3 months
• Access to one of the world’s largest children’s literature collections
• Dedicated workspace in the scientific reading room
• Guidance from experienced librarians and research specialists
• Support in finding suitable accommodation
• Opportunity to present research during an academic poster session
• International networking with scholars and researchers

Expenses Not Covered

Applicants should note that the fellowship does not cover:

• International airfare
• Health insurance
• Personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend

Eligible Nationalities

Applications are welcome from international candidates of all nationalities except German citizens.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the International Youth Library Fellowship Programme, applicants must:

• Hold citizenship outside Germany.
• Be conducting research related to children’s or young adult literature.
• Present a well-developed and clearly defined research proposal.
• Explain why the International Youth Library’s collection is essential to their research.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English and/or German.
• Have relevant academic, research, or professional experience in the proposed field.

Applicants are also expected to have completed preliminary research before submitting their application.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form
• Cover letter
• Research proposal (maximum three pages)
• List of academic publications, research projects, or professional achievements
• List of conferences, seminars, or academic presentations
• Examples of library materials relevant to the proposed research
• Recent passport-size photograph (optional)

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the International Youth Library Fellowship Programme:

1. Complete the official online application form.
2. Prepare a detailed research proposal explaining your project objectives.
3. Describe why the International Youth Library’s collection is necessary for your research.
4. Upload all required supporting documents.
5. Submit your application before 30 September 2026.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee of librarians and children’s literature experts.

Why Apply for the International Youth Library Fellowship Programme?

This fellowship offers an outstanding opportunity for international researchers to conduct specialized research in Germany while receiving financial support. Fellows gain access to an internationally recognized library, expert academic guidance, valuable networking opportunities, and an inspiring environment for developing high-quality research projects.

If your research focuses on children’s literature, publishing, illustration, or literary culture, this fellowship can significantly strengthen your academic career and international research experience.