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Category Archives: Grants
Small-Town Libraries Get Help for High-Tech Makerspaces with Kreutz Bennett Grants
Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund focuses on empowering libraries
Today’s libraries provide important services that go far beyond books. They are used for community gathering places, internet access, remote conferencing, public meetings, after-school programs, and increasingly, for wildly popular makerspaces for children and adults. Recently, the Kreutz-Bennett Donor-Advised Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation, helped six small-town Nebraska libraries provide access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) activities by providing grants totaling $46,321. All grants required a one-to-one match in local funding.
Funds will be used to purchase STEAM-related equipment, software, supplies and improve facilities in the following libraries:
Bridgeport Public Library
This library requested funding to equip its permanent makerspace, which is a broad term that includes space and equipment that encourages different kinds of creativity. It can include many things ranging from embroidery machines to 3D printers and laser cutters. The Committee approved a grant of $8,000.
Central City Public Library
A grant of $10,000 will match local funding to purchase equipment for the library’s makerspace. A Community Needs Survey has indicated public support for this project, and a grant of $10,000 will help meet this goal.
Clay Center Public Library
This request involved a technology update. The library will purchase new computers to allow it to present coding classes and sponsor a coding club. Many computers in Nebraska libraries, originally acquired through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, are now 10 or more years old. The Committee approved a grant of $7,191.
Kimball Public Library
This library is receiving a grant of $10,030 to create a new makerspace. The library hosted a Nebraska Library Commission mobile Innovation Studio this past year and is now planning to create its own space for encouraging creativity.
Lied Pierce Public Library
A grant of $1,100 will support the purchase of various STEAM supplies and equipment. This is an example of continuing support for libraries that demonstrate a record of successful programs.
Ravenna Public Library
This newly constructed facility will install equipment in a new makerspace, thanks to a matching $10,000 grant for enhanced programming.
An additional $86,750 in grants was awarded to the following libraries for program enhancement, facilities improvement, or work leading to accreditation:
Axtell Public Library
This library was offered a $20,000 grant in 2019 on the condition that the community could raise the matching funds within one year. Those funds have been secured and the contingent grant has been released. Funding will be used to update library’s restrooms to make them ADA accessible and improve the outdated and nonfunctioning lighting throughout the library.
Garfield County Library in Burwell
A grant of $3,750 will be matched by local funds and significant expenditures from the city and county to improve patron safety by installing additional parking, exterior lighting, and relocating bike racks away from traffic areas.
Geneva Public Library
The library requested assistance for renovating the exterior brick and mortar on the entrance of this historic building. The Committee noted that Shirley Kreutz Bennett was in favor of restoring historic libraries and provided a matching grant of $20,000.
Genoa Public Library
Two grants will provide funding for interior renovations and programming. A $10,000 grant will help replace 30-year-old carpeting and outdated shelving. Another $1,000 will be used to expand the children’s area with an assortment of educational games and supplies.
Hruska Memorial Public Library in David City
This library will receive up to $6,000 to replace very old equipment in its public meeting room including a projector, screen and speakers. More than 3,000 persons attended various presentations last year. The request is being matched by a local grant from Nebraska Community Foundation’s affiliated fund, the Butler County Area Foundation Fund, with additional funding from the Nebraska Library Commission.
Logan County Library in Stapleton
This non-accredited library will receive a matching grant of $500 to support the library director’s time and travel expenses for training in pursuit of accreditation, and to purchase a subscription that provides the library with e-books and audio books.
Rising City Public Library
This library will receive $2,500 to help with attaining accreditation. Funding will provide partial support for salary, a subscription for e-books and audio books, and a computer.
Rock County Public Library in Bassett
This library will use its $20,000 matching grant to expand its facility by renovating an attached garage, that formerly housed a bookmobile. The space will be used to create a meeting room, a classroom area, and an after-school program.
Shelby Public Library
This library is receiving $3,000 in matching funds to launch a community engagement program over three years that encourages and builds community cohesion. Each month the library will be the location for a diverse set of events ranging from cultural, educational and entertainment presentations.
Since 2012, more than $550,000 has been granted through a term endowment established by the late Shirley Kreutz Bennett, a lifelong educator originally from Harvard, Nebraska. Thanks to this generous support, dozens of libraries have launched projects to repair, renovate, or replace existing facilities, create programs that enhance library services, and importantly, prepare libraries, boards and directors to become accredited, which opens the door to increased state funding.
The Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund encourages all libraries serving communities with populations under 3,000 to review the grant guidelines and carefully consider how new improvements might better serve families.
Following Ms. Kreutz Bennett’s wishes, a Fund Advisory Committee composed of her nieces and nephews recommends grants each year. All grants require a one-to-one match in local funding and evidence that the project has broad community support. Grant seekers should review the guidelines and application procedures. The first short applications are due October 1, 2020. If invited, full applications will be due in January 2021. For more information, contact Kristine Gale, NCF community impact coordinator, 402.822.0466 or kgale@nebcommfound.org.
About Nebraska Community Foundation
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 260 communities.
In the last five years, 44,476 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Since 1994, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $355 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
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Nebraska Library Commission Awards Grants for Youth Library Service
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 3, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Sally Snyder
402-471-4003
800-307-2665
Nebraska Library Commission Awards Grants for Youth Library Service
The Nebraska Library Commission recently awarded $18,500 in grants for Excellence in Youth service. Of the grants awarded to twenty-two Nebraska libraries, several addressed the need for materials like LEGO®, STEAM, and other activities to encourage creativity in young people. The Nebraska Library Commission congratulates the public libraries listed below as they develop new and innovative programs to ensure excellence in library service for Nebraska young people.
The recipients are:
- Atkinson Public Library, Preschool learning materials, books, and activities
- Battle Creek Public Library, LEGO® kits and STEAM kits
- Bayard Public Library, ten group activities and programing, and Makerspace equipment
- Bellevue Public Library, iPads for youth patrons for hands-on learning opportunities including Spanish, Photography, and Music Composition
- Blue Hill Public Library, Teen Nights at the Library
- Burwell, Garfield County Library, Teen Space renovations and Teen Advisory Board creation
- Central City Public Library, Summer Reading Program presenters
- Columbus Public Library, Coding Clubs and Teen Game Nights
- David City, Hruska Memorial Public Library, Imagination Play Area supporting STEM learning for young children
- Franklin Public Library, LEGO® Club, Teen programing, and Summer Reading Program
- Genoa Public Library, Youth materials, and programming for afterschool and summertime
- Hastings Public Library, STEAM focused activities, Mega-Brain Kidz Club, and Summer Reading Program presenters
- Kimball Public Library, Expanding STEAM at the Library, Makerspace technology, and supplemental equipment
- Madison Public Library, 1000 Books before Kindergarten
- Mead Public Library, Summer Reading Program
- Minden, Jensen Memorial Library, expanding diversity at story time using multilingual materials
- Neligh Public Library, Teens After Hours program
- Ord Township Library, afterschool activities for youth
- Plattsmouth Public Library, Golden Sower Awards programs
- Lied Randolph Public Library, STEM activities, Youth programs, Learning toys & stations
- Superior Public Library, themed Reading kits (backpacks) for young children
- Wausa, Lied Lincoln Township Library, STEAM kits for youths
Youth Grants for Excellence are made available by the Nebraska Library Commission with funding from the State of Nebraska. 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, Library Management, Public Relations, Youth Services
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$24,500 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 3, 2020
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Christa Porter
402-471-3107
800-307-2665
$24,500 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
Nebraskans will once again reap the benefits of the energy and creativity of Nebraska young people as they serve as interns in their local public libraries. The Nebraska Library Commission recently awarded Nebraska Library Internship Grants totaling $24,500 to twenty-two 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:
- plan and implement programs such as summer reading programs for all ages, storytime sessions, book discussions, and teen/tween activities;
- implement a Young Adult Book Group or a Teen Summer Reading Program;
- organize Makerspaces and Maker Clubs, as well as other STEAM learning activities;
- create a Local History Collection;
- assist with outreach events outside the library;
- update the library’s website and social media sites (Facebook, Pinterest, blogs, etc.) or in some situation designing and coding a new website;
- assist with circulation activities, book selection, and collection management;
- create flyers, newsletters, newspaper articles, and other promotional materials; and
- work with Summer Youth Outreach Services to provide Bookmobile services at locations throughout the city and county.
The following Nebraska public libraries were awarded 2020 internship grant funding:
Alma, Hoesch Memorial Library
Atkinson Public Library
Axtell Public Library
Bassett, Rock County Public Library
Bayard Public Library
Bellevue Public Library
Columbus Public Library
Falls City Library & Arts Center
Grant, Hastings Memorial Library
Kimball Public Library
Lincoln City Libraries – Three branches (Bennett Martin, Loren
Corey Eiseley Branch, Charles H. Gere Branch) and the Lied Bookmobile/Youth Services Department
Orleans, Cordelia B Preston Memorial Library
Oshkosh Public Library
Oxford Public Library
Plainview Public Library
Shelby Community Library
York, Kilgore Memorial Library
Additionally, five public libraries participating in the Library Innovation Studios: Transforming Rural Communities (LIS) project have also received 2020 internship grant funding. The interns hired in these libraries will primarily be working with this LIS makerspace grant. These libraries include:
La Vista Public Library
Lied Pierce Public Library
McCook Public Library
Nelson Public Library
Superior 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 Education & Training, General, Grants, Library Management, Public Relations
Tagged grants, Internship Grants, internships
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2020 Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries
From the American Library Association News & Press Center:
The American Library Association (ALA) and the Will and Ann Eisner Family Foundation are now accepting applications for the 2020 Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries, which recognize libraries for their role in the growth of graphic literature. Last year the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries were expanded to award two Growth Grant recipients and one Innovation Grant recipient. The application deadline is Sunday, February 9, 2020.
These grants extend graphic novels into a new realm by encouraging public awareness about the rise and importance of graphic literature and honoring the legacy and creative excellence of Will Eisner. For a career that spanned nearly eight decades — from the dawn of the comic book to the advent of digital comics — Will Eisner is recognized as the “Champion of the Graphic Novel.”
Three grants will be awarded: two recipients will receive the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Growth Grants which provides support to libraries that would like to expand their existing graphic novel services and programs; one recipient will receive the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Innovation Grant which provides support to a library for the initiation of a graphic novel service or program.
Recipients each receive a $4,000 programming and collection development grant plus a collection of Will Eisner’s works and biographies as well as a selection of the graphic novels nominated for the 2020 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards at Comic-Con International. The grant also includes a travel stipend for a library representative to travel to the 2020 ALA Annual Conference in Chicago, IL to receive recognition from the Will and Ann Eisner Family Foundation. An applying librarian or their institution must be an ALA Member to be eligible and the grants are now open to libraries across North America, including Canada and Mexico.
“Will Eisner worked a lifetime to advance the medium he loved, comic art. Early on, he was convinced of its great artistic and literary potential. His highly innovational approaches brought revolutionary changes to the comics industry. A visionary known for experimentation, he pioneered the graphic novel movement and contributed to comic studies as both a teacher and an author of instructional books. He strongly advocated for the inclusion of comic art, comics, and graphic novel collections in libraries. He would be so pleased to see the burgeoning and rapid expansion of graphic novels on library shelves. The three grants are awarded to honor Will Eisner’s legacy and thank librarians for their outstanding dedication to the work they perform each day,” explained Nancy and Carl Gropper of the Will and Ann Eisner Family Foundation.
The Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries debuted in 2014, and the 2019 recipients — the Ceasar Chavez Middle School, Hayward, CA, the Sachem Public Library, Holbrook, NY, and the State Correctional Institution – Mahanoy Library, Frackville, PA. — were honored at the 2019 ALA Annual Conference in Washington, DC.
The Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries are administered by the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table. Amie Wright, President of the GNCRT said of the grants, “The Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grants for Libraries are important because they reinforce that graphic novel collection development should be a continual process of growth expansion and innovation – that our collections should change and grow as our communities and readership changes and grows.”
Joel Tonyan, one of the 2018 Growth Grant recipients, said, “Thanks to the Will Eisner Graphic Novel Grant for Libraries, the Kraemer Family Library at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs was able to significantly grow our graphic novel collection and bring renewed attention to it from our students and faculty. We’re seeing greater circulation than ever, and more and more faculty have begun to incorporate graphic novels into their curriculum. Moreover, the grant made it possible for us to host a community event in which scholars, students, artists, comic book retailers, and members of the public were able to come together to celebrate the diversity of viewpoints offered by comic books and graphic novels.”
The application and information about the grants can be found on the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table Eisner Grants page. The application deadline is Sunday February 9, 2020. For any inquiries, please contact ALA Graphic Novels & Comics in Libraries Round Table staff liaison Tina Coleman at ccoleman@ala.org.
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Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant
From the American Library Association News & Press Center:
The American Library Association (ALA) invites library workers to apply for a new annual grant to support innovative and meaningful community engagement efforts in libraries.
The Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant will provide $2,000 for a school, public, academic, tribal or special library to expand its community engagement efforts. Libraries are invited to apply by designing and outlining activities for a library-led community engagement project.
Project activities to be covered by the grant may include developing community engagement programs and services; partnering with a community agency that builds the capacity of the community to address an important concern/issue; or creating a program or event that connects the library to a community-identified aspiration or concern.
Community engagement is the process of working collaboratively with community members ¬— be they library users, residents, faculty, students or local organizations — to address issues for the betterment of the community.
Applications will be accepted between Dec. 2, 2019, and Feb. 3, 2020. View the full award guidelines and apply visit www.ala.org/LTCEG.
In May 2019, ALA announced that it had surpassed its original $50,000 fundraising goal to support the creation of the Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant, raising a total of $70,000 from 130 individuals. The initiative was made possible by a matching grant from former ALA president and longtime generous supporter Nancy Kranich.
“Thanks to our work in ALA, libraries of all types have unleashed the power of engaging their communities, working collaboratively to advance their aspirations and concerns, particularly for those voices rarely heard,” said Kranich, a past president of ALA who teaches a new generation of civically focused librarians in the Masters of Information program at Rutgers University. “I’m grateful that so many people have stepped forward to join me in supporting this vital work. Together, we can ensure that more libraries develop and share innovative approaches that demonstrate what’s possible when we turn outward toward our communities.”
The Libraries Transform Communities Engagement Grant is part of Libraries Transform Communities (LTC), ALA’s community engagement initiative. Since 2014, LTC has reimagined the role libraries play in supporting communities. Libraries of all types, from across the country, have utilized the free dialogue and deliberation training and resources to lead community and campus forums; take part in anti-violence activities; provide a safe space for residents to come together to discuss challenging topics; and have productive conversations with civic leaders, library trustees and staff. Learn more at www.ala.org/LTC.
LTC is administered by ALA’s Public Programs Office.
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Tagged librariestransform
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Apply for a 2020 Coretta Scott King Book Donation Grant
From the American Library Association News & Press Center:
Underfunded libraries, schools and non-traditional organizations that provide educational services to children are invited to apply to receive one of three Coretta Scott King Book Donation Grants. Every year, in the process of choosing the Coretta Scott King Book Award winners and honor books, the Ethnic and Multicultural Information Exchange Round Table (EMIERT) of the American Library Association receives multiple copies of approximately 60-100 titles by African American authors and illustrators.
Awarded by the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Committee, the grant program provides books submitted for consideration for the Coretta Scott King Book Awards to libraries and other organizations to expand their collections.
Each year, three organizations that demonstrate need and potential benefit from receiving the collection are selected. All three libraries will receive copies of titles submitted for consideration for the 2020 awards, including a full set of the 2020 winning titles.
Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2020 and winners will be announced by late March. For more information, and to apply, please visit http://www.ala.org/rt/emiert/cskbookawards/bookgrant
The Coretta Scott King Book Awards are presented annually by the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Committee of the ALA’s Ethnic and Multicultural Information Exchange Round Table (EMIERT) to encourage the artistic expression of the African-American experience via literature and the graphic arts.
Contact: Monica Chapman, Coretta Scott King Book Awards Coordinator, Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services, mlchapman@ala.org
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CE Grants: Last week to apply!
There’s still time to submit your application to attend the 2020 ARSL Annual Conference in Wichita, KS! Applications are due next Friday (01/17/20)!
Though the conference is in September, registration opened in spring last year (and sold out very quickly). Best to plan early and apply! Grant funds could go towards the cost of registration, travel, meals, or hotels.
CE grants are open to applicants who are either 1) currently employed in an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, 2) a current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, or 3) a student enrolled in a certificate or degree program with a concentration in library and information science or school library media at an accredited college or university for Fall 2020.
More details about the grant requirements, along with the application forms can be found in the links below.
- Grant Information
- Grant Application Form – Librarians & Board Members
- Grant Application Form – Students
- ARSL Annual Conference Preview
If you have any questions, please contact Holli Duggan, CE Coordinator.
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Apply for a CE Grant!
There’s still time to apply for a CE Grant to attend the ARSL 2020 conference before January 17th! This is an awesome opportunity to attend an out-of-state but nearby conference focused on rural and small libraries! Though the conference is in September, registration opened in spring last year (and sold out very quickly). Best to plan early!
Applications are now open to library students, librarians employed in an accredited public library, and library board members! Please see details in the links below.
This year, the Nebraska Library Commission is offering individuals $500 grants to attend the annual Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) 2020 Conference in Wichita, Kansas (Sept. 30th to Oct. 3rd)! Funding could go towards the cost of travel, hotel, meals, and/or registration costs.
CE grants are open to applicants who are either 1) currently employed in an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, 2) a current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, or 3) a student enrolled in a certificate or degree program with a concentration in library and information science or school library media at an accredited college or university for Fall 2020.
More details about the grant requirements, along with the application forms can be found in the links below.
- Grant Information
- Grant Application Form – Librarians & Board Members
- Grant Application Form – Students
- ARSL Annual Conference Preview
If you have any questions, please contact Holli Duggan, CE Coordinator.
CE Grants deadline extended! Now open to library science students!
The deadline to apply for this year’s CE Grants has been extended to January 17, 2020! This is an awesome opportunity to attend an out-of-state but nearby conference focused on rural and small libraries!
Applications for CE Grants to attend the ARSL 2020 conference are also now open to library science students! Applications are still open to those employed in an accredited public library and board members! Please see details in the links below.
This year, the Nebraska Library Commission is offering individuals $500 grants to attend the annual Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) 2020 Conference in Wichita, Kansas (Sept. 30th to Oct. 3rd)! Funding could go towards the cost of travel, hotel, meals, and/or registration costs.
CE grants are open to applicants who are either 1) currently employed in an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, 2) a current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference, or 3) a student enrolled in a certificate or degree program with a concentration in library and information science or school library media at an accredited college or university for Fall 2020.
More details about the grant requirements, along with the application forms can be found in the links below.
- Grant Information
- Grant Application Form – Librarians & Board Members
- Grant Application Form – Students
- ARSL Annual Conference Preview
If you have any questions, please contact Holli Duggan, CE Coordinator.
Continuing Education Grants!
Start planning ahead early and apply! This year, the Nebraska Library Commission is offering individuals $500 grants to attend the annual Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL) 2020 Conference in Wichita, Kansas (Sept. 30th to Oct. 3rd)! Funding could go towards the cost of travel, hotel, meals, and/or registration costs.
This is an awesome opportunity to attend an out-of-state (but nearby) conference focused on rural and small libraries! Details about the grant, along with the application forms can be found in the links below. Applications are due by December 13, 2019!
The purpose of these grants is to assist Nebraska libraries to improve the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. CE grants are open to applicants who are either 1) currently employed in an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference or a 2) current board member of an accredited Nebraska public library at the time of application and for the duration of the conference.
If you have any questions, please contact Holli Duggan, CE Coordinator.
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Call for Speakers: Big Talk From Small Libraries 2020
The Call for Speakers for Big Talk From Small Libraries 2020 is now open!
This free one-day online conference is aimed at librarians from small libraries; the smaller the better! We are looking for speakers from small libraries or speakers who directly work with small libraries. 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 five 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!
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2020 will be held on Friday, February 28, 2020 between 8:45 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (CT) via the GoToWebinar online meeting service. Speakers will be able to present their programs from their own desktops. The schedule will accommodate speakers’ time-zones.
If you are interested in presenting, please submit your proposal by Friday, January 3, 2020.
Speakers from libraries serving fewer than 10,000 people will be preferred, but presentations from libraries with larger service populations will be considered.
This conference is organized and hosted by the Nebraska Library Commission and is co-sponsored by the Association for Rural & Small Libraries.
NCompass Live: NLC Grants for 2020
Do you have a program or project you would like to see funded? Learn how to apply for the ‘NLC Grants for 2020’ on next week’s FREE NCompass Live webinar on Wednesday, September 11, 10:00am-11:00am CT.
The Nebraska Library Commission has made funding available for four grants for 2020: Youth Grants for Excellence, Internship, Library Improvement, and Continuing Education & Training. Join Christa Porter, Sally Snyder, and Holli Duggan, from the Nebraska Library Commission’s Library Development Team, as they provide an overview of the grants, including eligibility requirements, the application process and grant review, timelines and deadlines. They will also share some tips on writing effective grants.
Upcoming NCompass Live events:
- Sept. 18 – Coretta Scott King Book Awards: 50 Years Strong
- Sept. 25 – Pretty Sweet Tech – Can Librarians Teach Robotics?
- Oct. 2 – NO NCOMPASS LIVE THIS WEEK – ENJOY ILA/NLA/NSLA!
For more information, to register for NCompass Live, or to listen to recordings of past events, 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 GoToWebinar online meeting service. Before you attend a session, please see the NLC Online Sessions webpage for detailed information about GoToWebinar, including system requirements, firewall permissions, and equipment requirements for computer speakers and microphones.
Civic and Community Center Financing Fund Grant Guidelines Available
From the Nebraska Department of Economic Development:
DED Publishes CCCFF Program Application Guidelines for 2020
CCCFF Supports Projects that Enhance Quality of Life, Promote Economic Development and Foster Thriving Places
August 15, 2019 (LINCOLN, NEB.) – The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has published application guidelines for the Civic and Community Center Financing Fund (CCCFF) 2020 program year. The guidelines are available at https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/2020-CCCFF-Application-Guidelines.pdf. They can also be accessed by visiting DED’s CCCFF webpage.
Eligible to municipalities, the competitive CCCFF program provides financial assistance for the planning and development of civic, community and recreation centers, such as libraries, wellness facilities, convention centers, town squares, cultural centers and more. Through CCCFF, communities can cover up to 50% of total eligible project costs.
The 2020 application guidelines detail a number of changes to the CCCFF program that occurred during the 2019 Legislative Session. Notably:
- Project ownership can now be shared with an eligible political subdivision, so long as the municipality’s ownership stake is at least 50%.
- Projects may now be located within a municipality or its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).
- Eligible historic buildings must now be owned by the applying municipality. State Preservation Historic Office (SHPO) determination is required.
- The term “community center” has been replaced with “public space.”
Since 2004, communities across the state have benefited from the CCCFF program by way of 91 civic centers, 34 recreation centers and six public spaces including over 45 community centers and nearly 20 libraries.
DED will begin accepting applications to the CCCFF program on January 15, 2020. A sample 2020 application form is currently available online, but the online application portal will not be available until Jan. 15. Note that to be considered, applicants must provide a letter of intent (due Jan. 15, 2020) and apply online. Letters of intent may be submitted to the CCCFF Program Coordinator starting now. The application portal is open from Jan. 15 until the February 15, 2020 application due date. The anticipated award date is March 30, 2020.
For more information about CCCFF, visit the DED website or contact Jenny B. Mason, CCCFF Program Coordinator, at jenny.mason@nebraska.gov or 402-471-6280.
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2020 NLC Grants are Open for Applications
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 2020: Youth Grants for Excellence, Internship, Library Improvement, and Continuing Education & Training.
Applications are being accepted for all NLC grants right now! Don’t let your library miss out on these opportunities!
For more information about these grants, watch the recording of the NCompass Live webinar, NLC Grants for 2020 (1 hour 10 minutes).
Youth Grants for Excellence makes funding available specifically for innovative projects for children and young adults in accredited public libraries and state-run institutional libraries in Nebraska. The program is designed to encourage creative thinking, risk-taking, and new approaches to address problems and needs of children and young adults in your community. This grant application is due September 30, 2019.
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. This grant application is due October 16, 2019.
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. This grant application is due November 13, 2019.
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. This year, the Nebraska Library Commission is offering individuals $500 grants to attend the ARSL (Association for Rural & Small Libraries) 2020 Conference in Wichita, Kansas on Sept. 30th to Oct. 3rd, 2020! This grant application is due December 13, 2019.
Grant Funding Available for Nebraska Communities Impacted by Disasters
From the Nebraska Department of Economic Development:
DED Announces Open Cycle for New CDBG Category
Emergent Threat Funding will Assist Communities Impacted by Disasters
July 23, 2019 (LINCOLN, NEB.) – The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced a new funding source to assist communities impacted by disasters and/or emergent threats to public health, safety or welfare.
In a direct response to the recent flooding events , DED is now accepting applications for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding under the newly-created Emergent Threat (EM) category.
“CDBG is an agile program that has supported a wide array of community and economic development activities in Nebraska throughout its history,” said DED Director Dave Rippe. “Today, that flexibility has allowed the Department to mobilize a new source of funding to assist our communities in recovering from significant and tragic events.”
Under the EM category, local governments can apply for up to $450,000 to respond to emergent threats to public health, safety or welfare in the wake of disasters such as flooding, fire, tornados or other natural or man-made events. Matching funds are not required.
Eligible activities under the new category include improvements to infrastructure and facilities — e.g., community centers, senior centers, libraries, fire/rescue buildings, tornado safe shelters, street improvements, flood control and drainage improvements, etc. — that have been impacted by a disaster or when an emergent threat to public health, safety or welfare is present.
To the greatest extent feasible, EM funds are to be used as gap financing. Application criteria include the requirement to meet at least one CDBG national objective, including benefit to low- and moderate-income persons, aiding in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight in the affected areas, or urgent need.
Applications for EM funding are currently being accepted through an open cycle. A pre-application is required.
Today’s announcement represents DED’s most recent effort to support communities impacted by flooding in 2019. In April, the agency announced an open cycle for CDBG planning grants focused on disaster recovery. The following month, it made available disaster recovery housing funds through the Nebraska Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
Because EM funding is limited, potential applicants are encouraged to submit their applications promptly using the 2019 Emergent Threat Application Guidelines and Form.
DED will review EM applications on a quarterly basis as funds remain available. The next quarterly application deadline occurs September 30.
Pre-applications can be submitted at any time to verify eligibility. Having been impacted by a recent flooding event or receiving a disaster declaration is not a threshold requirement for eligibility.
Application guidelines and more information about the CDBG program can be obtained at www.opportunity.nebraska.gov/CDBG or by contacting Steve Charleston, CDBG Program Manager, at 402-471-3757 or steve.charleston@nebraska.gov.
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Small-Town Libraries Encouraged to Apply for Kreutz Bennett Grants
Guidelines relaxed; multi-year grants available
More than $400,000 has been granted in the past seven years to small-town libraries in Nebraska. The program is funded through the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation.
The Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund is currently accepting grant applications. Grants will be made to libraries located in communities with a population under 3,000. There are three different areas of support available; each grant requires a one-to-one match in local funding.
Planning for Accreditation Grants
The fund advisory committee encourages all eligible, unaccredited libraries to view the recently updated grant guidelines. A number of additional activities and expenses are now eligible for funding through a “Planning for Accreditation Grant.”
Enhancement Grants
Accredited libraries may apply for program support leading to the creation or improvement of library services and/or outreach. In-kind services or products may fulfill 50 percent of the local match requirement in this area.
Facilities Grants
Accredited libraries may request funding for new facilities or the renovation, restoration or rehabilitation of current libraries. Guidelines for this type of grant have been relaxed to allow libraries to apply for grants in multiple years for a total not to exceed $20,000.
Libraries that previously received facility grants less than $20,000 are allowed to apply for additional funding in this grant area.
There are approximately 100 eligible communities in Nebraska with non-accredited libraries. Libraries working toward accreditation may apply for grants over the course of multiple grant cycles. For instance, Walthill Public Library received two grants in two separate years to help with salary support for the director to spend additional hours working on the accreditation requirements. Once accredited, the library was eligible for larger grants from a variety of sources, including the state of Nebraska.
Grant applications are simple to complete. A short-form proposal is due October 1, 2019, and a full proposal is due in January 2020. Grant seekers may review and download the guidelines and application procedures on the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund website.
For more information, contact Kristine Gale, Community Impact Coordinator, 402.822.0466 or kgale@nebcommfound.org.
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Awesome Libraries Foundation: $1000 Prize
If you’re going to be at ALA in D.C. this year, consider applying for the $1,000 Awesome Libraries Prize.
Here’s the description from their prize application form: “library-focused small projects that could help communities, demonstrate new ideas, or improve tools or services. We are looking for AWESOME ideas that just need a little funding to get started. We see this as a chance to help you do some wacky, fun, overlooked, experimental, or artistic with no strings attached… as long as you can relate it to the general concept of libraries.”
You can learn more about the Awesome Libraries Foundation here. I hope you have an Awesome day!
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Nebraska Library Commission Receives FINRA Investor Education Foundation Grant to Expand Personal Finance Collections to Aid Consumers Following Devastating Floods
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 7, 2019
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Devra Dragos
402-471-4335
800-307-2665
Angelita Plemmer Williams, FINRA Investor Education Foundation
202-728-8988
@FINRAFoundation
Nebraska Library Commission Receives FINRA Investor Education Foundation Grant to Expand Personal Finance Collections to Aid Consumers Following Devastating Floods
[LINCOLN] — The Nebraska Library Commission today announced plans to expand personal finance e-book collections available through public libraries following receipt of a grant from the FINRA Investor Education Foundation.
The additional resources will help ensure that residents have the information they need when making critical money decisions as they repair, rebuild, and clean up following the March 2019 flooding.
“When disaster strikes, the community comes together,” said Rod Wagner. “We want everyone to know that their library is both a welcoming convening place and a location where our families can obtain unbiased information to guide financial choices that will have lasting impact.”
Filing claims, accessing government resources, managing lump-sum payments from insurance companies, and meeting immediate expenses when income might be disrupted — these are just a few of the money challenges that residents in disaster areas must navigate.
FINRA Foundation President Gerri Walsh noted, “Many of us lack experience with these decisions. Nonetheless, we have to get it right the first time around or face long-term financial consequences. Fortunately, your library has information that can help.”
The expanded personal finance collections are made possible by a $20,000 grant from the FINRA Foundation. For more than a dozen years, the FINRA Foundation has provided funding, staff training and programs to build the capacity of public libraries to address the financial education needs of people nationwide. Much of this has been accomplished in partnership with the American Library Association through a program known as Smart investing@your library®.
The FINRA Foundation is also providing materials that explain the red flags of financial fraud and what people can do to be vigilant and counter the persuasion tactics that fraudsters use.
It is estimated that consumer financial fraud costs Americans more than $50 billion a year, according to FINRA Foundation research. Financial fraud is especially prevalent following major natural disasters. Since it was established in 2005, the National Center for Disaster Fraud, which is part of the U.S. Department of Justice, has logged more than 92,000 disaster-related complaints from all 50 states. Financial fraud makes tough times all the more difficult for people recovering from the trauma inflicted by disasters.
The FINRA Foundation has issued an Alert with practical guidance to help residents protect themselves from fraudulent schemes. (See: https://www.saveandinvest.org/disaster-fraud-nebraska.)
Ms. Walsh observed, “Recovery follows disaster, but the path to recovery can be smooth or very bumpy. And financial fraud can be one of the biggest potholes along that road. The Nebraska Library Commission is working to make sure your library has information to help people avoid the financial potholes and bring the route to recovery into sharper focus.”
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.”
The FINRA Foundation supports innovative research and educational projects that give Americans the knowledge, skills, and tools to make sound financial decisions throughout life. For more information about FINRA Foundation initiatives, visit finrafoundation.org.
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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.
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Kreutz Bennett Grants Awarded to Small-Town Public Libraries
Seven Nebraska public libraries recently received project funding, thanks to the generosity of a lifelong educator, the late Shirley Kreutz Bennett of Lincoln. Each year, the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund, an affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF), accepts proposals for matching grants for public libraries in communities with populations under 3,000.
This year grants were awarded to libraries in Axtell, Crawford, Genoa, Randolph, Paxton, Sutton, and Yutan.
Following Ms. Kreutz Bennett’s wishes, a Fund Advisory Committee composed of her nieces and nephews recommends grants in three areas: planning for accreditation grants to support steps taken toward gaining accreditation; enhancement grants to improve library services; and facilities grants for new construction or the renovation, restoration, or rehabilitation of current libraries.
All grants require a one-to-one match in local funding and evidence that the project has broad community support. Approximately $80,000 in grant funding is available each year. Grant seekers are encouraged to review the Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund guidelines and application procedures.
The Fund Advisory Committee encourages all eligible, unaccredited libraries to view the recently updated grant guidelines. A number of additional activities and expenses are now eligible for funding through a “Planning for Accreditation Grant.” Libraries working toward accreditation may apply for grants over the course of multiple grant cycles. For instance, Walthill Public Library received two grants in two separate years to help with salary support for the director to spend additional hours working on the accreditation requirements. Once accredited, the library was eligible for larger grants from a variety of sources, including the state of Nebraska.
Grant applications are simple to complete. A short-form proposal is due October 1, 2019, and a full proposal is due in January 2020.
For more information, contact Kristine Gale, affiliated fund development coordinator, 402.822.0466 or kgale@nebcommfound.org.
The following libraries received grants in 2019:
Axtell Public Library
This library is raising local funds to update its library which is located in the heart of downtown. Planned improvements include installation of more effective lighting and renovating the restrooms to be accessible to all library patrons. The Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund awarded a $20,000 grant, contingent on the library’s success in raising matching funds within one year.
Crawford Public Library
This newly accredited library received a grant of $700 to continue its efforts in meeting the goals articulated in its Community Needs Response Plan. Activities include website updates, policy planning, and summer programming.
Genoa Public Library
The committee has awarded grants over several years to enhance this library’s services. This summer Genoa Public Library will launch a program that teaches computer coding to elementary students. Eight sessions will be offered, and the program will continue throughout the year to serve additional groups of students and adults. The Fund provided a grant of $1,000 to help with implementation.
Lied Randolph Public Library
An improved public meeting space is the goal of this project. A grant of $2,900 will match local funds for the purchase of new audio/visual equipment and chairs. In addition to community meetings, the new space will be used to present movies with quality sound and picture, allowing residents to “stay local.”
Paxton Public Library
Flooding in the summer of 2018 caused extensive damage to this facility. As a result, the library was closed for several months, but continued to offer online services to patrons. A grant of $10,000 will assist with interior and exterior repairs. Additional purchase of tables and chairs for preschool children are also planned. This project receives local support from the Keith County Foundation Fund, another affiliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation.
Sutton Memorial Library
The computers in this library are over 14 years old, and software programs are outdated and continue to fail as demand increases. The library’s Community Needs Response Plan indicated citizens believed that updates were essential. Many library patrons do not have access to a computer in their homes. Providing free access to the Internet is a core requirement for Nebraska libraries. The Fund awarded a grant of $6,767 for the purchase of seven computers and software.
Yutan Public Library
This library has set a goal to be accredited at the gold (highest) level, which will make it eligible for increased state funding. To do this the library needs to expand its collection by seven percent to be compatible with its peer libraries. A matching grant of $1,000 will help purchase more materials and books.
The Kreutz Bennett Donor-Advised Fund has provided over 50 grants to Nebraska libraries since it began annual grantmaking in 2012. Christa Porter, Nebraska Library Commission Director of Library Development, said this grant program is perfect for libraries that are not yet accredited. “Libraries can use grant funding to gather information for their Community Needs Response Plan. This might include providing salary or stipend support for additional staff hours,” Porter said.
Other possibilities for non-accredited libraries may include one-time, or first time, costs that will help libraries earn points on the Accreditation Application. For example, subscriptions to online library databases, joining regional or statewide consortia, and expenditures for start-up technology purchases and services.
“Gaining accreditation is critical to our libraries. It opens the door to other outside funding,” said Jeff Yost, NCF president and CEO. “In many small towns, the library serves as a public meeting space, a place for students to conduct research and do homework, and it offers Internet access to people who may not have it at home. We are honored to help the family of Shirley Kreutz Bennett carry out her legacy and passion for learning,” said Yost.
About Nebraska Community Foundation
Nebraska Community Foundation unleashes abundant assets, inspires charitable giving and connects ambitious people to build stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.
Headquartered in Lincoln, the Foundation serves communities, donors and organizations by providing financial management, strategic development, education and training to a statewide network of 1,500 volunteers serving 257 communities.
In the last five years, 41,776 contributions have been made to Nebraska Community Foundation and its affiliated funds. Over the past 25 years, Nebraska Community Foundation has reinvested $323 million in Nebraska’s people and places. For information, visit NebraskaHometown.org.
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Nebraska Library Commission Awards Grants for Youth Library Service
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 19, 2019
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Sally Snyder
402-471-4003
800-307-2665
Nebraska Library Commission Awards Grants for Youth Library Service
The Nebraska Library Commission recently awarded $23,254 in grants for Excellence in Youth service. Of the grants awarded to twenty-five Nebraska libraries, several addressed the need for materials like LEGO® and other activities to encourage creativity in young people. The Nebraska Library Commission congratulates the public libraries listed below as they develop new and innovative programs to ensure excellence in library service for Nebraska young people.
The recipients are:
- Atkinson Public Library, Preschool learning materials, books, and activities
- Blue Hill Public Library, LEGO® kits
- Butler Memorial Library, Cambridge, Breakout EDU Platform Kits for Kid Book Club
- Central City Public Library, Bring Edgerton Exploit Center to the library for a community day
- Columbus Public Library, Promote literacy and musical interests
- Wilson Public Library, Cozad, Cozad Biz Kidz Camp
- Creighton Public Library, LEGO® Club
- Fairbury Public Library, 3-D Printer and other makerspace equipment
- Franklin Public Library, LEGO® Club
- Fullerton Public Library, Programming to promote literacy and reading
- Genoa Public Library, Toddler Concept Bags
- Gering Public Library, Toddler Story & Playtime
- Grand Island Public Library, SAC Museum Space Program Day, LEGO® Guy Program Day, and SAM Labs Classroom Kit
- Imperial Public Library, K through 4 after school programs
- Kimball Public Library, Creative program expansion
- Louisville Public Library, Teen programming
- Mead Public Library, 1,000 Books before Kindergarten
- Jensen Memorial Library, Minden, Preschool programming
- Morton-James Public Library, Nebraska City, Materials encouraging learning and creativity
- Plainview Public Library, LEGO®s
- Plattsmouth Public Library, Busy Bags
- Shelby Community Library, Children activities
- Lied Lincoln Township, Wausa, Youth games
- Maltman Memorial Public Library, Wood River, LEGO® Club
- Yutan Public Library, American Girl Kit’s Klub
Youth Grants for Excellence are made available by the Nebraska Library Commission with funding from the State of Nebraska. 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.
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