"The Nebraska Library Commission connects the public with information by ensuring all residents have access to quality, affordable library services. We focus on expanding digital resources, providing online access to essential materials for education, career development, and general learning. Support for libraries and library staff is essential to these efforts. From early readers to seniors, we foster the joy of reading and help create lifelong learners throughout Nebraska."
                                                                                       
-Rod Wagner, Director, Nebraska Library Commission

Talking Book and Braille Service
The Nebraska Library Commission’s (NLC) Talking Book and Braille Service (TBBS) provides free audiobooks and audio magazines on digital cartridges and Braille to individuals with visual or physical disabilities that limit the use of regular print. Eligible individuals can also download books and magazines from the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) website administered by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled. TBBS provided over 128,000 books and magazines in audio and in Braille to 2,898 Nebraskans during the project period. The NLC in-house studios recorded and produced audiobooks and audio magazines from either Nebraska authors or regional authors, or about Nebraska and the Great Plains, and made the titles available to patrons.  
IMLS Funds: $553,371

Technology Innovation
The Nebraska Library Commission (NLC) has three primary initiatives to help libraries and their communities thrive in a rapidly changing world run by artificial intelligence and other Industry 4.0 technologies. Our support services range from building foundational digital skills like online privacy & security to experimenting with AI tools and navigating resources to launch a startup to reflect the broad range of technology and digital skill needs across Nebraska and beyond.

Digital Skills Hub & Staff Training: A repository of previously scattered digital skills resources geared towards job seekers, older adults, and other core demographics is paired with staff training via webinars, workshops, and courses. This was launched in the NLC and is currently being scaled out through a nationwide, multi-agency partnership to reduce duplicate efforts.

Tech Kits Through the Mail: This collection of robotics, virtual reality headsets, and other Tech Kits are distributed statewide through the mail to ensure all communities gain meaningful exposure to Industry 4.0 tech. Kits are paired with activities and support resources to introduce in-demand tech careers and entrepreneurial opportunities with actionable pathways.

Emerging Tech Hub & Training: Over the years, the Technology Innovation Librarian generated tech guides, policies, curated activity databases, and other resources that are now being merged with resources both in-state and nationwide through a variety of multi-agency collaborations, spanning business, librarianship, nonprofit, and education.
IMLS Funds: $73,177