The library is closed to the public, and permission to use its materials usually is granted only to Ph.D. candidates or postdoctoral fellows who have passed a screening process. For students, these seminars provide a chance to meet with and be mentored by outstanding scholars. In addition, students and staff at Mason are exposed to new ideas and new interpretations of critical work and thought. The deadline for spring seminar applications is Jan. 5 and for fall seminar applications Sept. 2. Students receive graduate credit for the seminars, paying only George Mason tuition costs.
Faculty can receive development grants to attend seminars.