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Category Archives: Grants
$21,000 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 25, 2024
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Christa Porter
402-471-3107
800-307-2665
$21,000 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
The Nebraska Library Commission recently awarded Nebraska Library Internship Grants totaling $21,000 to eighteen Nebraska public libraries. These internship grants will support public library interns who will contribute to the scope and value of the diverse programs and activities in Nebraska’s public libraries.
“The internships are a great opportunity for students to get involved in library work. Beyond earning money and gaining valuable work experience, the student is exposed to the broad range of library services and programming. Internships provide an opportunity for the student to view the library as a viable and satisfying career choice. In addition, interns bring a fresh perspective and their own unique talents to the library,” said Nebraska Library Commission Director Rod Wagner.
Student interns will learn about library work as they shadow staff, assist with day-to-day library operations, and implement special projects. Some of the activities that students will participate in include:
- Summer Reading Programs for youth, teens, and adults
- Help plan and conduct makerspace classes, STEAM activities, story time, computer classes, and Pioneer Days events
- Assist with library outreach at the Farmer’s Market
- Partner with local historian to work in the Heritage Room
- Field trips to visit other public libraries
- Partnerships with the Community Club, Library Foundation, 4-H, FFA, and County Extension
- Basic library duties: circulation, shelving, weeding, attending library board and city/village council meetings, processing acquisitions
The following 18 Nebraska public libraries were awarded 2024 internship grant funding:
Atkinson Public Library
Axtell Public Library
Rock County Public Library, Bassett
Bayard Public Library
Garfield County Library, Burwell
Central City Public Library
Ceresco Community Library
Clearwater Public Library
Grand Island Public Library
Howells Public Library
Lincoln City Libraries – Loren Corey Eiseley Branch Library, Charles H. Gere Branch Library, Bennett Martin Public Library, Youth Services Outreach, Bess Dodson Walt Branch Library, Northeast Service Unit – Victor E. Anderson & Bethany Branch Libraries
Nancy Fawcett Memorial Library, Lodgepole
Orchard Public Library
Osmond Public Library
Palisade Public Library
Papillion Public Library
Stromsburg Public Library
Valley Public Library
Funding for the project is supported and administered by the Nebraska Library Commission, in partnership with the Nebraska Library Systems.
As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”
Nebraska’s Regional Library Systems consist of four non-profit corporations governed by boards representative of libraries and citizens in the region. The four systems were established to provide access to improved library services through the cooperation of all types of libraries and media centers within the counties included in each System area.
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The most up-to-date news releases from the Nebraska Library Commission are always available on the Library Commission Website, http://nlc.nebraska.gov/publications/newsreleases.
Posted in General, Grants, Library Management, Public Relations
Tagged grants, Internship Grant, Library grants
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Continuing Education & Training Grants: Applications Open!
Continuing Education & Training grants help assist Nebraska libraries to improve the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. Successful applications will show how the continuing education and/or training proposed will support the library’s mission.
For this second round of CE Grants, we are accepting applications in three different areas: taking an online course, attending an out-of-state professional conference, and other larger continuing education projects for library staff or library board members. These courses/events/projects must be after July 1st.
Continuing Education and Training Grants 2024
Applications and support forms are due May 10, 2024.
For more details about this and other NLC grants, the NCompass Live archived session “NLC Grants for 2024” is also available.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Holli Duggan
Nebraska Library Commission Partners with Medica to Improve Public Libraries’ Internet Access
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 9, 2024
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Andrew “Sherm” Sherman
402-471-4559
800-307-2665
andrew.sherman@nebraska.gov
Nebraska Library Commission Partners with Medica to Improve Public Libraries’ Internet Access
In partnership with Medica, the Nebraska Library Commission (NLC) can assist Nebraska’s public libraries with the purchase and installation of new network technology to improve Internet access and digital equity for their communities.
The funding provided by Medica will be utilized to provide libraries with up-to-date and secure networks and WiFi for public use that can support current and future high-speed Internet connections. “Medica is pleased to provide funding to the Nebraska Library Commission to help local libraries improve internet access and digital equity in their communities,” said Pat Bourne, Medica Market Leader for Nebraska.Many of Nebraska’s small and rural public libraries have challenges accessing the funds and resources needed to select, purchase, and install new technology. The funding provided by Medica combined with the technical resources provided by the NLC will provide the assistance these libraries need to support their communities in this increasingly connected world.
The NLC will initially be contacting libraries that may need assistance with their networks based on the recent Public Library Survey results or have an identified need via the Technology Reviews that have been conducted so far. Libraries interested in upgrading their network can contact Andrew “Sherm” Sherman to arrange for a Technology Review so the current state of their networks can be determined and needed upgrades identified.
As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”
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The most up-to-date news releases from the Nebraska Library Commission are always available on the Library Commission Website, http://nlc.nebraska.gov/publications/newsreleases.
Posted in General, Grants, Public Relations, Technology
Tagged internet, Medica, news release, Public Libraries, WiFi
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NCompass Live: Winning Grants for Your Library Programming
While every library is unique, they all seem to share one thing in common: they could use more money! Get tips for ‘Winning Grants for Your Library Programming’ on next week’s NCompass Live webinar on Wednesday, March 13, at 10am CT.
Grant funding might be the just thing to help buy technology for STEM programming, get a new service initiative off the ground, or complete a renovation. But applying for grants can be overwhelming – and that’s assuming you can even find one for which you qualify. This session aims to introduce you to the tools to make the grant application process more easily navigable. In this session, Kathryn will provide tips for putting your best foot forward when it comes time to submit your proposal. Handouts include a roadmap to success and descriptions of various sections of the application.
Presenter: Kathryn Brockmeier, Grant Consultant.
Upcoming NCompass Live shows:
- March 20 – No More Summertime Blues: Shaking Up SRP to Make It Work for YOU!
- March 27 – Pretty Sweet Tech: Computers in Libraries 2024 Highlights & Trends
- April 3 – Improving the Quality of Childcare Through STREAM
- April 10 – Program Planning with a Marketing Mindset
To register for an NCompass Live show, or to listen to recordings of past shows, go to the NCompass Live webpage.
NCompass Live is broadcast live every Wednesday from 10am – 11am Central Time. Convert to your time zone on the Official U.S. Time website.
The show is presented online using the GoTo Webinar online meeting service. Before you attend a session, please see the NLC Online Sessions webpage for detailed information about GoTo Webinar, including system requirements, firewall permissions, and equipment requirements for computer speakers and microphones.
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024 is tomorrow!
Small libraries! Awesome ideas! FREE!
Join us tomorrow for the 2024 Big Talk From Small Libraries online conference. Registration is still open, so head over to the Registration page and sign up!
We have a full agenda for the day, with speakers from academic and public libraries presenting on a wide variety of topics: fundraising, Memory Cafes, summer reading, accessibility audits, afterschool meals programs, DEIB: diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and much more.
This event is a great opportunity to learn about the innovative things your colleagues are doing in their small libraries.
And, Nebraska library staff and board members can earn 1 hour of CE Credit for each hour of the conference you attend! A special Big Talk From Small Libraries CE Report form has been made available for you to submit your C.E. credits.
So, come join us for a day of big ideas from small libraries!
Penguin Random House Grants for Small Libraries Application Deadline: Dec. 15
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries.
Applications for the 2024 Association for Rural & Small Libraries/Penguin Random House Grants for Rural & Small Libraries are open!
Through the generosity of Penguin Random House, ARSL is pleased to announce this grant opportunity for small, rural libraries nationwide! This grant is available to libraries that meet both the IMLS definition for small libraries (a service population of 25,000 or fewer) and the definition for rural libraries (libraries located 5 or more miles from the nearest town of 25k or more).
Applicants may request:
One (1) monetary grant in support of a community-oriented project for up to $1,000.
or
An in-kind grant donation of up to $1,000 in equivalent value to support a circulating collection in your library.
Deadline for applications is December 15, 2023.
Notifications of funding decision will be sent to applicants by March 8, 2024.
Funded projects must be completed by December 31, 2024.
Project reports must be submitted by February 1, 2025.
The program will award grants to libraries that demonstrate a true need. Monetary grants are not limited to literacy and may be used for everything from library programming and books to resources like hotspots that help community members access important information. Library seeking support for digital collections should request a monetary grant.
View the Grant FAQ and Apply for the Grant online. Contact the ARSL Office with any questions at info@arsl.org
Posted in Grants, Library Management, Programming, Technology, Youth Services
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2024 NLC Grants are Open for Applications!
Nebraska Public Libraries and State-run Institutions! Do you have an idea for a program or project you would like to see funded?
The Nebraska Library Commission has made funding available for four grants for 2024: Continuing Education & Training, Internship, Library Improvement, and Youth Grants for Excellence.
Applications are being accepted for all NLC grants right now! Don’t let your library miss out on these opportunities!
Grant applications for all 2024 NLC grants are due November 17, 2023.
For more information about these grants, register for the September 20 NCompass Live webinar, NLC Grants for 2024.
Continuing Education & Training grants help assist Nebraska libraries to improve the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. Successful applications will show how the continuing education and/or training proposed will support the library’s mission. There will be two rounds of CE Grants. The first fall grants will open in September and applications will be accepted for events/projects/classes that must be completed before July 1, 2024. The second spring round will open in March and applications will be accepted for events/projects/classes that begin after July 1, 2024.
Internship grants work to introduce high school and college students to the varied and exciting work of Nebraska libraries. The internships are intended to function as a recruitment tool, helping the student to view the library as a viable career opportunity while providing the public library with the finances to provide stipends to the student interns.
Library Improvement grants facilitate growth and development of library programs and services in Nebraska public and institutional libraries, by supplementing local funding with federal funds designated for these purposes.
Youth Grants for Excellence are available specifically for innovative projects for children and young adults in your community. The program encourages creative thinking, risk-taking, and new approaches to enable youth librarians to begin needed programs and try projects which they have been unable to undertake, and to offer an opportunity to expand youth service capabilities in new and different directions.
Apply now for Round 2 of ALA’s Libraries Transforming Communities Grant: Accessible Small and Rural Communities
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries.
The American Library Association invites applications from small and rural libraries for the second application period of the Libraries Transforming Communities (LTC): Accessible Small and Rural Communities grant.
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities will offer more than $7 million in grants to small and rural libraries to increase the accessibility of facilities, services, and programs to better serve people with disabilities. ALA is now accepting applications for grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.
Applications will be accepted from September 11 through December 11, 2023 at https://www.ala.org/tools/librariestransform/libraries-transforming-communities/access
The opportunity is open to any type of library in the U.S. and U.S. territories that serves a small and rural community – to be eligible, a library must have a legal service area population of 25,000 or less and be located at least five miles from an urbanized area (town/city with a population of 25,000 or greater).
Participating libraries will first conduct community input-gathering sessions to assure that their work aligns with local needs. Libraries will be required to identify the primary audience they are hoping to reach (e.g., homebound seniors, children with autism, Deaf community members) and facilitate a community conversation with the impacted populations in order to guide improvement of the library’s services. Grantees would then use the funds to create services or improve their facilities based on the needs identified by their audience.
Selected libraries will receive $10,000 or $20,000 to support costs related to their community engagement project; virtual training to assist project directors in developing their community engagement, facilitation, and disability service skills; a suite of online resources developed to support local programs; and technical and project support from the ALA Public Programs Office throughout the grant term.
Questions? Contact the American Library Association (ALA) Public Programs Office staff at 1-800-545-2433, ext. 5045, or publicprograms@ala.org
Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities is part of ALA’s longtime commitment to preparing library workers for the expanding role of libraries. The initiative is offered in partnership with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL). It is supported by a private donor.
Posted in Grants, Library Management, Programming
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Call for Speakers: Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024
The Call for Speakers for Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024 is now open!
Submit your proposal by Friday, December 15, 2023.
This free one-day online conference is tailored for staff from small libraries; the smaller the better!
Small libraries of all types – public, academic, school, museum, special, etc. – are encouraged to submit a proposal. We’re looking for seven 50-minute presentations and four 10-minute “lightning round” presentations.
Do you offer a service or program at your small library that other librarians might like to hear about? Have you implemented a new (or old) technology, hosted an event, partnered with others in your community, or just done something really cool? The Big Talk From Small Libraries online conference gives you the opportunity to share what you’ve done, while learning what your colleagues in other small libraries are doing.
Here are some possible topics to get you thinking:
- Unique Libraries
- Special Collections
- New buildings
- Fundraising
- Improved Workflows
- Staff Development
- Advocacy Efforts
- Community Partnerships
- That great thing you’re doing at your library!
Speakers from libraries serving fewer than 10,000 people will be preferred, but presentations from libraries with larger service populations will be considered. Speakers must be from small libraries or directly partnered with a small library and submitting a proposal to co-present with the library.
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2024 will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024 between 8:45 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (CT) via the GoTo Webinar online meeting service. Speakers will present their programs from their own desktops. The schedule will accommodate speakers’ time-zones.
This conference is sponsored by the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) and the Nebraska Library Commission.
Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash
Free Training Opportunity this October! Learn about Creative Aging Program Development for your library
Are you interested in providing creative programming for older adults in your community? The Nebraska Arts Council is partnering with the Nebraska Library Commission to offer training led by Lifetime Arts, a national leader in creative aging program development.
Library staff throughout the state are invited to apply for Creative Aging Arts Program (CAAP) Library Training, and the training is entirely free of charge.
Those who are accepted for this program will participate in three synchronous online sessions on Monday mornings, October 16, 23, and 30 from 10:00am-12:00pm CDT (9:00am-11:00am MDT). Up to two library staff per library building may apply. There are just 25 spaces available, and part of the online training is interactive, so applicants are asked to make a good-faith commitment to attend all three sessions at the designated times.
Participants will learn about exciting new nationwide trends to engage older adults through creative activities and help to alleviate loneliness, which is becoming recognized as a widespread challenge affecting many older adults. Participants will also see examples of creative activities led by artists that can be easily adapted in library settings, discover how creative arts programming can be a vehicle to nurture social interaction, learn tips and tricks about administering programs, and hear about grant opportunities through the Nebraska Arts Council’s Creative Aging Arts Program (CAAP).
Apply early! Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and spaces are limited. The final deadline to apply is October 2.
Questions? Contact Anne Alston at the Nebraska Arts Council.
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Grant Opportunity: High School Drone Program
If you work with high school students in your library, or know a high school in need of a drone program, check out this FAA Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program.
The FAA is awarding up to $500,000 to multiple applicants for a total of $4,500,000 in an effort to attract future aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators (drone operators) in the U.S. Starting a drone pilot training program in your school or library is a great way to attract future aviation professionals!The grant application is due August 16, 2023, so think fast! Feel free to check out these drone training resources for high school age students as inspiration for your grant writing:
- Skyop: Drone Training Programs for High Schools. Reach out to them for a consultation and customized program. This program can actually result in pilot certification.
- Droneblocks Curriculum for DJI Tello Drones
- CoDroneEDU Classroom Packs from Robolink
You can also reach out to local community colleges and universities to get the most up to date drone-related curriculum, or more local resource and program referrals. I’ll stop droning on now. Happy applying!
Posted in Education & Training, General, Grants, Pretty Sweet Tech
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ARPA Report – St. Edward Public Library
St. Edward Public Library used ARPA funds to support the community!
Several areas of the community, along with the library, were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The library’s project targeted specific areas such as infection control, library organization, support for local students, support for homeschooling families, stress relief, and support for Hispanic families.
School administration did not feel it was safe for elementary students to take field trips. So, the library provided several educational programs. These programs covered topics such as pet care, habitats of exotic animals, raptor recovery, wildlife and water conservation within our state, sea turtles, penguins, ocean life, prehistoric oceans, and an art class taught by a local artist. Adult painting classes were also hosted in an attempt to relieve some of the anxiety and stress that resulted due to the pandemic.
Due to this increase in programming, additional organization space was needed. Some of the funds were used to add another file cabinet to the library’s workroom. Also, the library purchased an air purifier to improve infection control.
During this time, the community saw an increase in homeschooling. To aid in this transition, the library added a Homeschooling Resource section. These materials included books from Around the World geography curriculum, Imagination Station history curriculum, Ocean Anatomy, Farm Anatomy, Nature Anatomy, Food Anatomy, and Homeschooling Tips and Ideas for parents.
Lastly, some of the Hispanic members of the community struggled with the language barrier. This lead to problems obtaining services and health care. Some of the ARPA funds were used to obtain bilingual books and materials for the library’s conversational ESL class.
The library has seen success through its projects. Programs for the local students were well attended and some of the teachers have expanded the programs into their classrooms. The library is also working with the local school to provide during and after school sessions.
The homeschooling parents have formed friendships and a support system for each other. There is talk about forming a co-op to bring the kids together for some classes and experiences. Materials for the homeschooling families will continue to be added to the library’s collection and space for the co-op will be provided.
The library’s adult patrons have expressed appreciation for its stress relieving programs. The library is also in the process of scheduling more adult and senior programs.
Local businesses and services, along with the school, have indicated that the library’s English classes for the Hispanic community members have been helping with communication. The Boone County Foundation has expressed interest in helping the continuation of the ESL classes.
The biggest lesson learned was that the library has that ability to be safe space where all are able to come to be nurtured, taught, or just welcomed.
______________________________________________________________________________
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is result of the federal stimulus bill passed by Congress. The Nebraska Library Commission received a one-time award of $2,422,166. A portion of this funding has been allocated for three projects: Formula based grant program, NLC Library Improvement Grants, and NLC Youth Grants for Excellence.
This project is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Nebraska Library Commission.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
ARSL 2023 Conference: Last Chance for CE Grants!
Apply now for a $500 grant to attend the ARSL 2023 Annual Conference in Wichita, Kansas on September 20-23!
Application Deadline: Friday – July 7
The purpose of these grants is to assist Nebraska libraries in improving the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. Successful applications will show how attending this conference will support the library’s mission.
Eligible costs include:
- Registration (for in-person or virtual conference)
- Travel
- Meals
- Lodging
- Preconference fees (but does not include networking or social events)
Registration costs are available on the conference website.
The applicant must be either 1) employed in an accredited Nebraska public library or a state-run institutional library at the time of application and for the duration of the course, or 2) a current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the course.
For more information on this and other CE Grants, please see:
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Holli Duggan.
Posted in Education & Training, Grants
Tagged #ARSL2023, CEgrants, Continuing Education, continuing education grant
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Apply now for a ‘Thinking Money for Kids’ Program Kit
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries at http://nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/index.aspx
ALA and the FINRA Foundation invite public libraries, including tribal and state libraries in the U.S. and U.S. territories, to apply to receive a Thinking Money for Kids Program Kit, a collection of expertly vetted resources to help libraries offer financial education for children ages 3 to 12, both in the library and in children’s homes..
Application deadline: September 8.
We all need to master the knowledge and skills to make smart financial choices and prepare for whatever the future brings. Thinking Money for Kids, an initiative of the American Library Association (ALA) and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, strives to teach children and their parents, caregivers and educators about financial topics – like saving, spending, sharing and budgeting – in a way that is both meaningful and fun.
Approximately 200 public libraries will be selected to receive a Thinking Money for Kids Program Kit (estimated kit value: $2,000). Libraries will keep all kit contents, including the Launchpads, after the grant period ends. The programming period will run from September 2024 through December 2025.
Each selected library will receive the following:
- All materials needed to host five different in-person children’s programs – such as ready-to-use games, props and other physical materials – for children ages 3 to 12.
- A set of Playaway Launchpad tablets pre-loaded with digital content that aligns with the in-person program offerings.
- Program instructions, talking points, related book lists and other resources to assist library workers in planning and hosting the in-person programs.
- Template promotional materials and digital graphics to assist library workers with marketing the programs and Launchpad tablets to the public.
- Access to virtual training and a community of practice.
Shipping is free for libraries and coordinated by ALA.
Selected libraries are required to attend two brief virtual trainings; host each of the five in-person children’s programs at least once during the 16-month programming period; add Launchpad tablets to library circulation and collect circulation data; and complete a brief final report form (estimated completion time: less than 30 minutes).
Posted in Grants, Youth Services
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Lois Lenski Covey Foundation: Bookmobile Grant Program
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries at http://nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/index.aspx
Through the Bookmobile Grant Program, the Lois Lenski Covey Foundation awards grants to organizations that operate a lending bookmobile that travels into neighborhoods populated by underserved youth. The grants are for purchasing books published for young people preschool through grade 8, Early Reader books through Young Adult and Hi-Lo books.
Bookmobiles operated by charitable [501(c)(3)] and other non-taxable agencies, including public libraries or schools, are eligible. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that serve economically or socially at-risk children, have limited book budgets, and demonstrate real need.
Grants range from $500 to $3000 and are specifically for book purchases, and cannot be used for administrative or operational uses.
A link to a downloadable application and detailed instructions for completing and sending the application are available at the Bookmobile Grant Application webpage.
Application deadline: September 1.
About the Lois Lenski Covey Foundation
The purposes of the Lois Lenski Covey Foundation are to advance literacy and foster a love of reading among underserved and at-risk children and youth. Lois Lenski, celebrated author and illustrator of over one hundred children’s books and the 1946 Newbery medalist for Strawberry Girl, established the Foundation as a charitable institute in 1967. Since then the Foundation has assisted over 400 organizations in their efforts to nurture reading skills, gain access to books, and instill a love of reading.
Posted in Books & Reading, Grants, Youth Services
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4imprint Grants for Promotional Items
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries at http://nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/index.aspx
Every business day, 4imprint’s one by one® charitable program provides several $500 in-kind grants for promotional items to various 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, religious organizations, and registered Canadian nonprofits. In order to apply for a donation you must be employed by or be a member of the Board of Directors of the organization.
They grant one donation per 12 months to a particular organization. But, if you are denied a donation, you may re-apply after 6 months.
To apply, submit an application at least two months before your event, to allow time for order, imprint, and delivery, at https://onebyone.4imprint.com
See the lists of previous grants awarded at https://onebyone.4imprint.com/recipients/2023
Posted in Grants, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations
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Continuing Education Grants: Applications Extended!
Apply now for a $500 grant to attend the ARSL 2023 Annual Conference in Wichita, Kansas on September 20-23!
The deadline for the Continuing Education and Training Grant has been extended to June 2, 2023!
The purpose of these grants is to assist Nebraska libraries in improving the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. Successful applications will show how attending this conference will support the library’s mission.
Eligible costs include:
- Registration
- Travel
- Meals
- Lodging
- Preconference fees (but does not include networking or social events)
Registration for the conference will open on June 13th. Registration costs are available on the conference website.
The applicant must be either 1) employed in an accredited Nebraska public library or a state-run institutional library at the time of application and for the duration of the course, or 2) a current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the course.
For more information on this and other CE Grants, please see:
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Holli Duggan.
Apply for PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentives
For more grants like this one, check out the NLC’s Grant Opportunities for Nebraska Libraries.
With support from AT&T, the Public Library Association (PLA) is offering incentives for public libraries to teach digital literacy workshops for library patrons and community members. Applications are open now through June 2, 2023, for the below incentives.
PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive
Offers incentives of $6,000 to conduct workshops using DigitalLearn training materials designed to help patrons build skills and confidence using technology.
Offers incentives of $1,500 to conduct the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Basics workshop designed to help families and households learn about ACP and how to apply for the benefit.
About PLA’s Collaboration with AT&T
Community members come into public libraries every day, hoping to complete life tasks many of us take for granted, but sometimes lacking the basic computer skills needed to accomplish them. PLA offers digital literacy programs to help you help patrons reach their goals. A national PLA collaboration with AT&T has added both content and local partnership opportunities to encourage public libraries and other community partners to promote and teach digital skills together using the DigitalLearn platform!
With support from AT&T as part of AT&T Connected Learning and the company’s commitment to bridge the digital divide, PLA has been able to add and update more than a dozen online DigitalLearn courses, and develop 9 new complete training packages. Materials are available in both English and Spanish. All DigitalLearn materials are free to use.
Posted in Education & Training, Grants, Technology
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ARPA Report – Plainview Public Library
Plainview Public Library used ARPA funds to add new items to its collection and show patrons the value of returning to the library!
When the COVID pandemic hit, patrons did not use the library as much. The purchase of new items and equipment show patrons all that the library has to offer. Some of these new items include a cricut maker and mug press, sublimation printer and supplies. The cricut maker and printer provide patrons with the option to make gifts, etc. in case they are low on funds due to the pandemic.
In an effort to get kids back into the library and involved in its programs, the library purchased indoor games and snap circuits, Osmo kits and a Kindle Fire to be used with the Osmo kits and breakout kits. It purchased circuit cubes robots, gears go garage and robots roll kits to be used with the LEGOS to get the kids interested in playing with the LEGOS again. Finally, the MakeDo kits to get kids creating with cardboard. The first project the children made were snowplows out of cardboard boxes.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of fresh air and sunshine. The new outside games at Plainview Public Library allows patrons to go outside and play. In addition, a vacuum was also purchased to keep the library a clean environment.
In the summer of 2022, the library hosted the LEGO Guy and Dino O’Dell to get patrons in the library and involved in its programs. This also gave community members an opportunity to get out of their homes and do something fun! For these two presentations, the library had 68 children and 22 adults in attendance.
There was a 10% increase in attendance for the library’s after school and summer reading programs. There was also a 10% increase in new patrons who came to check out the cricut maker, mug press, and sublimation printer.
The most significant lesson learned is that no matter how prepared you think you are, when a pandemic hits, you learn even more.
______________________________________________________________________________
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is result of the federal stimulus bill passed by Congress. The Nebraska Library Commission received a one-time award of $2,422,166. A portion of this funding has been allocated for three projects: Formula based grant program, NLC Library Improvement Grants, and NLC Youth Grants for Excellence.
This project is supported in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Nebraska Library Commission.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
Libraries Defying the Odds: Nomination Period is OPEN
Library Journal and Gale are pleased to announce the inaugural Libraries Defying the Odds award, created to help address the needs of public libraries in a continuously changing landscape.
As libraries confront obstacles that range from natural disasters to inadequate infrastructure to intellectual freedom challenges, many have used creative problem solving, activated community support, forged strong partnerships, and otherwise found new ways to overcome these barriers and meet the needs of the people they serve.
The 2023 Libraries Defying the Odds award will provide $10,000 to a U.S. public library that is stepping up for its community and staff in the face of adversity—and to celebrate library workers providing services, programming, and collections for those who need them most. The award will be based on need and the nature of the work done.
One winning library will receive $10,000 in grant money from Library Journal and Gale and will be profiled in the July issue of Library Journal and online. Honorable mentions may also be named and briefly profiled in the same issue.
Click here for more information.
Deadline to submit: May 13, 2023
Posted in General, Grants
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