I hope everyone has heard by now that the old Nebraska Libraries on the Web service will be ending as of September 30, 2026. At that time, the old websites will be archives and can no longer be accessed for easy migration.
To make sure there is enough time to get all the sites migrated before the end of the month, we are asking people to let us know which new website option you chose by next week Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Email Amanda Sweet at amanda.sweet@nebraska.gov
Recap of Website Options
As a recap, here are your options:
- Free Site Through NLC: Vern here at the Commission made a free site option that automatically loads data from information collected through the Public Library Survey. The free site has one layout option that cannot be customized, but you can update content in certain areas, like limited blurbs of upcoming events, policy docs, etc.
- $250/yr WordPress Site Through LibChalk: Your current WordPress site will be migrated to LibChalk at the negotiated rate, which includes cybersecurity and back-end support.
- $150/ yr WordPress Multisite Through LibChalk: We partnered with LibChalk to offer a new multisite option so you can keep your WordPress site. The difference between a full site and multisite option is that you are limited to 5-10 different theme options and 10+ different plugins for additional features like calendars.
- Alternative Option: You can also choose to go rogue and choose a different host. I can give you your export file, but cannot offer migration support so I don’t have to learn a million different systems I’ll never use again.
What’s the Difference Between Regular & Multisite Options?
The $250/yr full WordPress site gives you full control over which themes and plugins you use on your site. Themes indicate the layout, look and feel of your overall site. Plugins are the added features like calendars, forms, PDF Embedders, etc. You can choose anything you want in the full version, but you will also be in charge of updating and maintaining the plugins and themes. This isn’t hard, you just have to add it to your checklist.
The multisite option is locked down to 5-10 different themes that are all compatible with approximately 10 different plugins. These themes and plugins will be automatically updated on the back-end so you don’t have to do anything. All themes on the multisite are responsive, and there will be a plugin called Elementor that allows for more flexibility in layout if you so choose.
Which Option is Right for Me
- Full LibChalk @ $250/yr: This option is great if you want full control over the look and feel of your website, and want to experiment with different features without having to go through a network administrator. Unfortunately, the answer is very likely to be no when adding themes or plugins to the multisite.
- Multisite @ $150/yr: The new multisite is great for libraries who want to stay on WordPress, and want more layout options than the default free version, but you’re on a limited budget. The themes and plugins are automatically updated, so you have less to worry about, and less overwhelm in choosing features and themes.
- Free Version: This option is great if you don’t have a budget at all, or don’t have a lot of staff time to maintain a WordPress website. Or if you just don’t want to deal with a site, but know you need one.
- Alternative: If you don’t like WordPress, or your city told you to get folded into their main site, this is probably the way to go. I will add the note that LibChalk does host other website types besides WordPress, but you have a lot of different options if you’re looking in the wide world of website options.
Free WordPress Course
If you’re new to WordPress or looking for a refresher, check out this free WordPress course available through the Commission’s Niche Academy. It was made by Diana Silveira who lives and breathes WordPress.
Still Have Questions?
Feel free to email Amanda Sweet at amanda.sweet@nebraska.gov
You can also call her at 402-471-3106
