“The resources and services funded through the LSTA program are integral to the operations of all Kansas libraries. Our statewide databases, digital book collections, summer reading program, resource sharing infrastructure, and talking books services could not be offered at current levels without this support.”

-Ray Walling, State Librarian, State Library of Kansas 
 

Resource Sharing
Every Kansan can request books not available at their local library. This is possible through the State Library of Kansas’ support of resource sharing throughout the state. State library staff maintain a statewide catalog and requesting system. The system allows libraries of all types and sizes to share real-time availability of their resources. Library staff use the system to locate and request books on behalf of their users. While not every library can afford every book, libraries can efficiently pool their resources to support all Kansans. Through this service, Kansans can access a wider range of resources than their local library may be able to provide.
IMLS Funds: $506,414.57

Statewide Databases & Learning Tools
Every Kansan has access to a variety of reliable databases and learning tools. Kansans can utilize these databases from any location or device with internet, including homes, schools, and libraries. The State Library of Kansas licenses these resources statewide at a significant cost savings that otherwise would not be affordable for most libraries.  State library staff provide training and support to ensure each local library can assist community members in navigating these research tools. These databases and learning tools support students at all educational levels, assist lifelong learners, develop work-force skills, and foster entrepreneurship throughout the state. “The value of Kansas state databases to our small community is that they provide free access to a wide range of high-quality resources that support education, job searching, research, and lifelong learning. For a small community, these databases bridge the gap in access to high-quality information, making education, career growth, and personal enrichment more accessible without extra costs to residents.” - Karen Gillihan, Director of Goodland Public Library
IMLS Funds: $994,603.79

Talking Books
Through its Talking Books program, the State Library of Kansas provided a variety of services for Kansans with visual impairments and other print disabilities. These included personal assistance via phone, email, and order forms to fulfill patron reading interests and requests. The State Library subscribes to an automation system designed to meet the complex needs of a service for persons with various print disabilities. Through this tool, the State Library’s website offers digital books and magazines from the National Library Service, which coordinates similar programs across the U.S. There are more than 118,000 books and 80 magazines available for download from this site, and new titles are constantly being added. As part of the project, the State Library of Kansas also provided braille transcription and production services for other state agencies.
IMLS Funds: $152,713.69