Search the Blog
Categories
- Books & Reading
- Broadband Buzz
- Census
- Education & Training
- General
- Grants
- Information Resources
- Library Management
- Nebraska Center for the Book
- Nebraska Memories
- Now hiring @ your library
- Preservation
- Pretty Sweet Tech
- Programming
- Public Library Boards of Trustees
- Public Relations
- Talking Book & Braille Service (TBBS)
- Technology
- Uncategorized
- What's Up Doc / Govdocs
- Youth Services
Archives
Subscribe
Category Archives: Library Management
NCompass Live: Read the Rainbow: Serving the LGBTQ+ Community in Your Library
LGBTQIA…BCDEFG? What do all those letters even mean, and why should you care? Find out on next week’s NCompass Live webinar, on Wednesday, May 17 at 10am CT.
Join Lane for a primer on all things LGBTQ, and learn about how (and why) you can begin to build a more inclusive and welcoming library for both customers and staff, and why it matters.
Presenter: Lane Gibson, Library Service Associate, Gere Branch Library, Lincoln (NE) City Libraries.
Upcoming NCompass Live shows:
- May 24 – La Biblioteca Es Para Ti – Building Community Relationships in a Different Language
- May 31 – Pretty Sweet Tech: Bots for the Community!
- June 7 – In Search of the Obscure – Using Library & Online Sources to Find Resources that are Out of the Ordinary
- June 14 – Transforming Library Staff Learning Through Technology Skills Assessments
- June 28 – Pretty Sweet Tech
- July 5 – One Book for Nebraska Kids & Teens 2023
- July 19 – Nebraska Open Meetings Act: 2023 Overview and Updates
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.
Posted in Books & Reading, Education & Training, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations
Tagged NCompLive
Leave a comment
2022 Public Library Survey Data are Now Available
The 2022 FY public library survey data are now available on the NLC website. This is preliminary data (meaning that it has not yet been certified by IMLS) so keep in mind that it is subject to change. Thanks to all of you who submitted your statistics. Historical data (back to 1999) are also available on our website. The next survey cycle begins in November, but you should be collecting those statistics now. If you are a new library director, check out the Bibliostat guide.
Governor Pillen Promotes Broadband Connections During National Library Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 27, 2023
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495
John Gage, (531) 510-8529
Governor Pillen Promotes Broadband Connections During National Library Week
CLAY CENTER, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen, together with the Nebraska Library Commission, the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC), the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), and the Clay Center Library, highlighted the Nebraska E-rate Special Construction State Matching Grant Program as an opportunity to further connect Nebraskans by incentivizing new broadband fiber construction to state libraries.
“Reliable and fast broadband internet connection is an essential component to quality of life,” said Governor Pillen. “Internet access impacts work force, education, public health, economic development, and public safety. Schools and libraries serve as the centers of communities and ensuring those institutions are connected to fiber is a priority for the State of Nebraska. These fiber-optic based networks will provide connectivity to resources and expand reach and access to Nebraskans.”
The federal E-rate program provides discounts ranging from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services based on 1) the percentage of students eligible for the National School Lunch Program in the school district in which the library is located, and 2) the urban or rural location of the library, based on U.S. Census data.
The state program is designed to maximize federal funds by providing up to 10% in matching support to Nebraska Eligible Telecommunications Carriers (NETCs) to connect E-rate eligible entities with fiber where there is no existing fiber connection. The Nebraska E-rate Special Construction State Matching Grant Program (NUSF-117), administered by the PSC, was established in May 2020 and has allocated $1 million to facilitate the build-out of new fiber to Nebraska libraries and schools participating in the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) E-rate Special Construction Program.
To best serve the needs of stakeholders, the PSC is seeking comments on its E-rate Special Construction Matching Funds program, including whether modifications should be made, what services are supported and whether existing funding is sufficient or needs to be increased. Libraries can learn more about the proposed enhancements and provide comment by visiting the E-rate Special Construction page of the PSC website and clicking on the NUSF-117 P.O.#1 link.
“In our commitment to deployment of fiber optic internet to all Nebraska libraries, we applaud the work of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and Governor Pillen’s leadership on these issues,” said Nebraska Library Commissioner Director Rod Wagner. “We encourage all Nebraska libraries to provide comments to the PSC during this open comment period.”
“I’m thankful for the financial assistance of the Nebraska E-rate Special Construction State Matching Grant program to install fiber at our library. We have participated in the federal E-rate program for 24 years,” said Clay Center Public Library, Director Cheryl Green. “These programs enable libraries to provide unlimited online resources, using reliable high-speed digital broadband. I encourage other Nebraska libraries to participate in the Nebraska E-rate Special Construction State Matching Grant program to install fiber-optic connectivity at their library.”
Libraries and schools are encouraged to participate in the process by providing comment responses to questions posed in the NUSF-117 P.O.1 docket. Initial comments may be filed on or before Friday, May 26, at 5 p.m. (CT) and reply comments may be filed on or before Friday, June 16, at 5 p.m. (CT) by email to psc.nusf-filings@nebraska.gov.
“Our state libraries help to keep our communities connected,” said PSC District 4 Commissioner Eric Kamler. “Through the State E-rate program, we can help provide support for new fiber construction to these essential public institutions.”
Information on the E-rate program in general can be found at nlc.nebraska.gov/erate/ and the PSC website at E-rate Special Construction.
###
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.
ARPA Report – Karlen Memorial Library
Karlen Memorial Library used ARPA funds to make improvements to the library!
Keeping the library clean during COVID took a toll on the two vacuums. One overheated and the second lost suction and failed to clean the library carpets. With funds provided through ARPA, the library was able to purchase a new commercial vacuum to replace the two that broke. Another beneficial purchase was made to prevent the spread of germs. The second purchase made by the library was a new touchless water fountain/bottle filler.
In the past, the library directed patrons to West Point or Wisner for their small laminating projects. Now, with the use of the newly purchased laminator, the library is able to meet the needs of patrons who wish to laminate small items as well as larger projects, such as newspapers and posters.
Another purchase made by the library were Magna-Tiles and KEVA Planks for its STEM program. When the library resumed in-person programming, staff searched for new program ideas and new ways to increase attendance during the summer months. In addition, a new Bingo cage and Bingo cards were purchased for the library’s Friday Game Day program. Prior to owning its own materials, the library borrowed Bingo materials from the American Legion. Now that the library has its own set, it is available when needed.
Lastly, with funds provided through ARPA, the library was able to acquire a refrigerator. Since its reopening following COVID, the library has started to hold more events for its patrons. The refrigerator allows cold beverages and snacks to be served for meetings and events.
The library board spent considerable time brainstorming ways that the ARPA funds could meet the needs of the community. The items have been well received by library patrons and community members. The library is appreciative of the ARPA grant and satisfied with the purchases that were made.
_________________________________________________________________________________
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.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
Public Library Accreditation 2023 Workshops Scheduled
‘Public Library Accreditation 2023’ workshops are now open for registration! All workshops will be held online only, via GoTo Webinar. To register for a session, go to the Nebraska Library Commission’s Training & Events Calendar and search for ‘accreditation 2023’.
NOTE: This online workshop is being offered on several days and at varied times, to give attendees multiple opportunities to find a convenient time to attend. The same information will be provided at each workshop, so you only need to register for one session. A recorded version will also be made available after all of the live sessions have been held.
The purpose of Nebraska Public Library Accreditation is to encourage excellent library service in Nebraska communities. The guidelines used to evaluate libraries and their services are community-based, so libraries need to know their communities’ needs in order to provide appropriate library services that meet those unique needs. That’s where Community Needs Response Planning comes in!
In this workshop, Christa Porter, NLC’s Library Development Director, will answer all of your accreditation questions, such as:
- What is Nebraska Public Library Accreditation?
- What are the benefits of accreditation?
- How does my library become accredited?
- What’s a Community Needs Response Plan? And why does my library need one?
Public Library Directors, Staff, and Library Board Members are encouraged to attend.
Dates and times:
- May 16 – 1:00-4:00pm Central / 12:00noon-3pm Mountain
- May 18 – 9:30am-12:30pm Central / 8:30-11:30am Mountain
- May 23 – 9:30am-12:30pm Central / 8:30-11:30am Mountain
- May 24 – 1:00-4:00pm Central / 12:00noon-3pm Mountain
To register for a session, go to the Nebraska Library Commission’s Training & Events Calendar and search for ‘accreditation 2023’.
ARSL 2023 needs YOU: Conference Session Proposal Submissions NOW OPEN!
From ARSL:
Request for Proposals: 2023 ARSL Conference Sessions
ARSL Conference | September 20-23, 2023 | Wichita, KS
This year’s conference theme is “Unite & Ignite”! Our conference provides an opportunity to unite as a professional community and foster a sense of togetherness across a nation of small but mighty libraries. When we come together to share and learn we’ll light fires of innovation and change that can burn bright all year long.
The Request for Proposals (RFP) for 2023 ARSL Conference Sessions is now open!
Are you a community engagement superstar? Have a storytime formula that can’t be beat? Do your reader’s advisory recommendations always hit the mark? We need YOU to present at ARSL 2023! The program presenters are the heart of the conference, bringing valuable skills and experience to share with fellow attendees.
Submission Deadline: April 25, 2023, 5:00 pm CT Submit a Conference Session Proposal
Ready to get started? Download the sample RFP form to preview the questions. Check out our Tips for a Great Program Proposal to help polish your submission!
New this year: Pop-Up Program Demos If the thought of lecturing at the front of the room turns your legs to jelly our pop-up program demos might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for! These 20-minute sessions will give presenters the opportunity to demo a craft or other library program piece for small groups of attendees. These practical, actionable demo sessions will let programming pros share their ideas in a less intimidating, more familiar environment. Special consideration will be given to pop-up demos that incorporate intentional accessibility for patrons of different ages and ability levels.
E-rate Form 471 Deadline is March 28
Tuesday, March 28 is the deadline to submit the second form in the E-rate process, Form 471, for Funding Year 2023. The application filing window for Form 471 opened on January 18.
However, we do not recommend waiting until the last day to submit your Form 471! If there are any issues that day, like the E-rate servers are slowed down because it is the last day to submit, or you can’t submit the form due to reasons on your end, such as illness, weather, power outage, etc., then you could miss the deadline and lose out on E-rate altogether.
So, log into your E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) account and submit your Form 471 as soon as you are allowed!
IMPORTANT: Before you file your Form 471, check your Form 470 Receipt Notification for your Allowable Contract Date – the first date you are allowed to submit your 471. Do not submit your 471 before that date! Remember, after you submit your Form 470, you must wait 28 days to submit your Form 471. You can find your Notification within the EPC portal in your News feed.
Do you need help completing your forms? Do you have questions about E-rate? You’re in luck!
The March 16 E-rate News Brief has last-minute tips and links to instructional videos. USAC also conducted a series of office hour webinars focused on E-Rate topics related to FCC Forms 470 and 471 – you can watch the recordings on the USAC Webinars webpage. To keep up on E-rate news, subscribe to the USAC E-rate News Brief.
USAC has a series of video tutorials on the FCC Form 471 Video Series: https://www.usac.org/e-rate/learn/videos/#FCC-Form-471
And more recorded webinars, demos, and training materials are available on the NLC E-rate webpage.
If you have any questions or need any assistance with your E-rate forms, please contact the State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries in Nebraska, Christa Porter, 800-307-2665, 402-471-3107.
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2023 is tomorrow!
Small libraries! Awesome ideas! FREE!
Join us tomorrow for the 2023 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: Zombie Prom, staff evaluations, adapting big outreach for small libraries, book challenges in small libraries, library playgrounds, programming for adults with disabilities, 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!
Only One Week Until Big Talk From Small Libraries 2023!
Small libraries! Awesome ideas! FREE Online Conference!
There’s only one week until Big Talk From Small Libraries 2023!
Check out the full schedule and register to join us next Friday, February 24.
Sponsored by the Nebraska Library Commission and the Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL), this free one-day online conference is tailored for staff from small libraries – the smaller the better! Each of our speakers is from a small library serving fewer than 10,000 people, and they are from both academic and public libraries. This event is a great opportunity to learn about the innovative things your colleagues are doing in their small libraries.
Everyone is welcome to register and attend, regardless of how big or small your library. But, if your library serves a few hundred to a few thousand people, this is the day for you!
Posted in Education & Training, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations, Technology, Youth Services
Tagged ARSL, BTSL2023
Leave a comment
E-rate: Form 470 Deadline is February 28
Two weeks left to file for 2023!
Tuesday, February 28 is the deadline to submit the first form in the E-rate process, Form 470, for the upcoming 2023 Funding Year.
The Filing Window for submitting the second form in the process, Form 471, opened on January 18, and will close on Tuesday, March 28. This makes February 28 the deadline to post your Form 470 to the USAC website, meet the 28-day posting requirement for the competitive bidding process, and submit a Form 471 by the filing window closing date.
However, we do not recommend waiting until the last day to submit your Form 470! If there are any issues that day, like the E-rate servers are slowed down because it is the last day to submit, or you can’t submit the form due to reasons on your end, such as illness, weather, power outage, etc., then you would miss the deadline and lose out on E-rate altogether.
So, get your E-rate process started and submit your Form 470 as soon as possible!
Not sure if you’ve done your 470 yet? No problem! You can look up your E-rate forms to check their status in your E-rate EPC account, to be sure that you have submitted and certified them:
When you are logged into your EPC account, and you are on your Landing Page, scroll all the way to the bottom – under ‘FCC Forms and Post-Commitment Requests’ you can look up your FCC Forms. The Form Type will default to the 470. Choose the Funding Year – 2023. When the results come up, your forms will be listed below the search boxes. If the Status is ‘Certified’ or ‘Committed’, then the Form and the Certification has been received by USAC. If it says ‘Incomplete’ or there are no results, then you still need to submit your 470.
Do you need help completing your forms? Do you have questions about E-rate? You’re in luck!
The January 18 E-rate Special Edition News Brief has detailed tips, steps in the E-rate process, and links to user guides and instructional videos. USAC also conducted a series of office hour webinars focused on E-Rate topics related to FCC Forms 470 and 471 – you can watch the recordings on the USAC Webinars webpage. To keep up on E-rate news, subscribe to the USAC E-rate News Brief.
And more recorded webinars, demos, and training materials are available on the NLC E-rate webpage.
If you have any questions or need any assistance with your E-rate forms, please contact Christa Porter, Nebraska’s State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, 800-307-2665, 402-471-3107.
NCompass Live: Digital Libraries as Digital Third Place: Virtual Library Programming
How can libraries continue to fulfill their role as vital third places in digital environments? We will discuss virtual library programming in the era of social media, online education, and the loneliness epidemic on next week’s NCompass Live webinar on Wednesday, February 15 at 10am CT.
The role of libraries as “Third Place” – community building spaces that separate from home and work — has been noted ever since Ray Oldenberg described the concept in his book, “The Great Good Place.” While both academic and public libraries continue to serve in this role as physical third places, what about in an online environment? Simply offering online circulation and reference services is insufficient. This presentation will discuss recent research on loneliness, social media, and how strategic design of virtual library programming can enable libraries to continue to fulfill their role as vital third places in digital environments.
Presenters: Jenny Haddon, Processing and Outreach Archivist, Assistant Professor, Calvin T. Ryan Library, University of Nebraska at Kearney; Craig Finlay, OER & STEM Librarian, Criss Library, University of Nebraska at Omaha.
Upcoming NCompass Live shows:
- Feb. 22 – Pretty Sweet Tech: Makerspaces: Hubs for Interdisciplinary Learning
- March 1 – 2023 One Book One Nebraska: ‘The Mystery of Hunting’s End’
- March 8 – Read the Rainbow: Serving the LGBTQ+ Community in Your Library
- April 19 – Creative Aging Arts Program for Nebraska Libraries
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.
Posted in Education & Training, Library Management, Programming, Technology
Tagged NCompLive
Leave a comment
NCompass Live: Accessibility Isn’t Just for Patrons! Internal Documentation for Everyone
How can we be sure that core principles of accessibility are being met, even for ourselves? Find out on next week’s NCompass Live webinar on Wednesday, February 8 at 10am CT.
The World Health Organization estimates that 15% of the world’s population (more than 1 billion people) have an accessibility need. We understand that content needs to be read and understood by a wide variety of readers – and our internal documentation is no different. How can we be sure that core principles of accessibility are being met, even for ourselves? Different accessibility actions to be discussed include some core ADA suggestions such as alt text or descriptions, heading usage, and font choices. In addition, extra actions such as presenting in multiple formats, clarity of language and purpose, and consistency in formatting will also be discussed.
Presenter: Emily Gewecke, Tech Services Associate, University Libraries, University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Upcoming NCompass Live shows:
- Feb. 15 – Digital Libraries as Digital Third Place: Virtual Library Programming
- Feb. 22 – Pretty Sweet Tech
- March 1 – 2023 One Book One Nebraska: ‘The Mystery of Hunting’s End’
- March 8 – Read the Rainbow: Serving the LGBTQ+ Community in Your Library
- April 19 – Creative Aging Arts Program for Nebraska Libraries
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.
$20,000 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 30, 2023
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Christa Porter
402-471-3107
800-307-2665
$20,000 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries
The Nebraska Library Commission recently awarded Nebraska Library Internship Grants totaling $20,000 to twenty 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
- Public relations: websites, social and print media, designing and posting flyers, and other forms of marketing
- Basic library duties: circulation, shelving, weeding, processing acquisitions
- Assist with Early Literacy Programs
- Create and organize new Teen Space
- Assist with the genrification process in the library
- Partnerships with schools and daycare centers
- Creating new Teen Programming
- Assist with ‘Under the Microscope’ Youth program
The following 20 Nebraska public libraries were awarded 2023 internship grant funding:
Axtell Public Library
Bennington Public Library
Bridgeport Public Library
Crete Public Library
Fullerton Public Library
Gibbon Public Library
Hastings Memorial Library, Grant
Lincoln City Libraries, Loren Corey Eiseley Branch Library
Lincoln City Libraries, Charles H. Gere Branch Library
Lincoln City Libraries, Bennett Martin Public Library
Lincoln City Libraries, Youth Services Outreach
Lincoln City Libraries, Bess Dodson Walt Branch Library
Lincoln City Libraries, Northeast Service Unit – Victor E. Anderson & Bethany Branch Libraries
Madison Public Library
Newman Grove Public Library
Cordelia B Preston Memorial Library, Orleans
Ponca Carnegie Library
Shelby Community Library
Shelton Public Library
South Sioux City Public Library
Raymond A Whitwer Tilden Public Library
Valparaiso Public Library
Verdigre Public Library
Lied Lincoln Township Library, Wausa
Maltman Memorial Public Library, Wood River
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.
###
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, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations
Tagged grants, Internship Grant, Library grants
Leave a comment
ARPA Report – Ashland Public Library
Ashland Public Library used ARPA funds to make improvements to the library!
The library turned off their drinking fountains due to COVID-19 in an effort to prevent the spread. Using money from the ARPA grant, the library was able to install a bottle filler to the drinking fountains. This allowed kids, patrons, and the public to access the water when needed.
The recent pandemic shed a light on how important WiFi access is to the community. Children would sit by the windows in order to gain access when the library was closed. The library was able to purchase new access points to give patrons higher speeds inside and outside the library.
COVID-19 hit the active seniors in the community hard. Isolation and limited contact led to disconnect in community activities. As vaccination rates increased, the library offered a free exercise program geared toward seniors. The GeriFit program was a great fit for the community and helped the senior population to get back out and strengthen their muscles.
Along with the ARPA Youth for Excellence Grant, Ashland Public Library purchased STEM equipment for the new group of home school students. The library purchased iPads along with Sphero to teach computer coding. For younger patrons, the library bought two option of the Go Robot Mouse to spark learning of how coding works.
The pandemic showed that Ashland Public Library is an important piece of its community. Every upgrade or new purchase, has had positive results. Patrons have shown their appreciation for all the opportunities available through the library to help the community continue to move forward.
_________________________________________________________________________________
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.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
Posted in General, Grants, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations, Technology, Youth Services
Tagged American Rescue Plan Act, ARPA, COVID, Grant, grants, Library improvement
Leave a comment
E-rate Form 471 Application Filing Window Opens Today
The E-rate Form 471 application filing window for Funding Year 2023 opened today at noon EST and will close on Tuesday, March 28 at 11:59 pm EDT. You may now log on to the E-rate Productivity Center (EPC) and file your FCC Form 471 for FY2023.
This makes Tuesday, February 28, the deadline to post your Form 470 to the USAC website, meet the 28-day posting requirement for the competitive bidding process, and submit a Form 471 by the filing window closing date.
However, we do not recommend waiting until the last day to submit your Form 470! If there are any issues that day, like the E-rate servers are slowed down because it is the last day to submit, or you can’t submit the form due to reasons on your end, such as illness, weather, power outage, etc., then you would miss the deadline and lose out on E-rate altogether. So, get your E-rate Form 470 submitted as soon as possible!
IMPORTANT: Before you file your Form 471, check your Form 470 Receipt Notification for your Allowable Contract Date – the first date you are allowed to submit your 471. Do not submit your 471 before that date! Remember, after you submit your Form 470, you must wait 28 days to submit your Form 471. You can find your Notification within the EPC portal in your News feed.
Do you need help completing your forms? Do you have questions about E-rate? You’re in luck!
Today’s E-rate Special Edition News Brief has detailed tips and instructions, as well as information about upcoming online training opportunities from USAC. To keep up on E-rate news, subscribe to the USAC E-rate News Brief.
And more recorded webinars, demos, and training materials are available on the NLC E-rate webpage.
If you have any questions or need any assistance with your E-rate forms, please contact the State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries in Nebraska, Christa Porter, 800-307-2665, 402-471-3107.
NCompass Live: First Amendment Audits: What You Need to Know
Have you heard about ‘First Amendment Audits’? Learn how to deal with these visits at your library on next week’s NCompass Live webinar on Wednesday, January 18 at 10am CT.
A loosely organized social media campaign to “audit” government spaces and agencies for alleged First Amendment violations has begun to target public libraries. Individuals and groups claim a right to film in any space, arguing that they’re entitled to do so as taxpayers and citizen journalists. A growing number of public libraries are reporting these types of visits, even in Nebraska. Library users and staff are being targeted as subjects of these videos. This session will share what a First Amendment Audit is, what the related laws are, how to protect both the public and library staff, and what to do when and after it happens.
Presenters: Jessica Chamberlain, Director, Norfolk (NE) Public Library; Laura England-Biggs, Director, Keene Memorial Library (Fremont, NE); Sky Seery, Director, North Platte (NE) Public Library.
Upcoming NCompass Live shows:
- Jan. 25 – Pretty Sweet Tech: Learn About TechGirlz & Inspire Girls in Your Community Today!
- Feb. 1 – A New Partnership to Provide Tax Preparation Services to Hard-to-Reach Taxpayers
- Feb. 8 – Accessibility Isn’t Just for Patrons! Internal Documentation for Everyone
- Feb. 15 – Digital Libraries as Digital Third Place: Virtual Library Programming
- Feb. 22 – Pretty Sweet Tech
- March 1 – 2023 One Book One Nebraska: ‘The Mystery of Hunting’s End’
- March 8 – Read the Rainbow: Serving the LGBTQ+ Community in Your Library
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.
ARPA Report – Falls City Library & Arts Center
Falls City Library & Arts Center provided social distanced computer use to its patrons with funds granted through the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act!
The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act provided financial support so libraries could meet the needs of their communities. The grant covered cost of equipment, technology, and other materials.
The computer lab at Falls City Library & Arts Center has been closed since the beginning of the pandemic due to the computers being side by side. Patrons utilize the computers to access the internet for digital content, find resources to support educational pursuits, healthcare research, employment opportunities, and personal enjoyment. It serves the needs of individuals who do not have internet access in their home.
Money from the ARPA grant allowed Falls City Library & Arts Center to offer social distanced computer use. 14 Chromebooks were purchased so that patrons can use them anywhere in the facility.
The Library staff met their goal to provide computer access without time limits for patrons online access and no waiting for use since 2007.
Patrons have expressed their gratitude for being able to access the internet and equipment to print, fax and scan documents.
Patrons have also shown appreciation for assistance with computer needs.
_________________________________________________________________________________
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.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
Posted in General, Grants, Library Management, Programming, Public Relations, Technology
Tagged American Rescue Plan Act, ARPA, Grant, Library improvement
Leave a comment
2023 Big Talk From Small Libraries Schedule Now Available
The full schedule for the 2023 Big Talk From Small Libraries online conference is now available!
You will find all the details on the Schedule page. Information about our presenters is available on the Speakers page.
If you haven’t registered yet, now is the time to jump over to the Registration page and sign up!
You are welcome to watch as an individual or to host a group viewing of the conference. If several staff members from the same library want to attend, you can just register for one seat and have staff members view/listen together via one workstation.
You can also host a viewing party this same way and invite staff from other libraries. For any group viewings, if you know who will be there, you can list your Additional Attendees on your one registration or you can send us a list after the event. Be sure to take all necessary health and safety precautions into account when planning group viewings.
Big Talk From Small Libraries 2023 will be held on Friday, February 24, 2023 between 8:45 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (CT) via the GoTo Webinar online meeting service.
Posted in Education & Training, Library Management, Programming, Technology, Youth Services
Tagged BTSL2023
Leave a comment
ARPA Report – Hartington Public Library
Hartington Public Library utilized ARPA funds to make improvements to the Library!
The Hartington Public Library used funds to purchase new chairs for its public meeting room. This room is used for public meetings as well as children’s programming like StoryTime, StoryHour, afternoon movies, and regular board game club meetings. The original upholstered chairs were purchased when the new addition was built in 1997 and were showing considerable wear. The new chairs are commercial grade with chrome legs and are very durable.
The ARPA grant also provided the library with a new water fountain and water bottle station. The older water fountain overflowed and caused damage to the library’s tile floor. The new improvement helps the bathroom area become more sanitary and provides the after-school kids with a place to fill up their water bottles, as many of them stop in the library between sporting activities.
Patrons love the new upgrades and improvements made to the library!
_________________________________________________________________________________
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.
For more information about the 2021 American Rescue Plan, visit www.nlc.nebraska.gov/grants/arpa/index.aspx
E-rate Form 471 FY2023 Application Filing Window Dates Announced
of the E-rate pie!
From the USAC website:
FY2023 Application Filing Window Dates Announced
The FCC Form 471 Application Filing Window for Funding Year 2023 will open on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at noon EST and close on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at 11:59:59 EDT. You can read the USAC announcement for full details.
To prepare for the window opening:
- If you haven’t already done so, file your FCC Form 470 now! You do not have to wait for the Form 471 window to open.
- To file your FCC Form 470, log into the E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC). You must wait 28 days after your FCC Form 470 is posted to the USAC website before you can close your competitive bidding process, select a service provider, sign a contract (if applicable), and submit an FCC Form 471. If you issue an RFP after the FCC Form 470 is posted, you must wait 28 days from the release of the RFP to select a service provider.
- Tuesday, February 28, 2023 is the deadline to post your FCC Form 470 to the USAC website or issue an RFP and still complete all of these actions before the window closes.
- Update Your EPC Profile During the Administrative Window – Update your EPC profile by January 16, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Review your EPC profile and confirm all of your information is accurate including your organization’s name, address, and other details. Your profile is currently unlocked and available for you to insert any further updates, but will be locked again before the 471 Filing Window opens. Libraries should confirm their square footage, main branch, and public school district of the main branch information is correct and that any bookmobiles or kiosks are included.
You can find additional resources and instructions for using the EPC on the USAC website and on the NLC’s E-rate website.
Please contact Christa Porter , Nebraska State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries, if you have any questions or need any assistance submitting your E-rate forms.
