Harry B. Ward

The Nevada Talking Book Services (NVTB) strategic plan focuses on providing access to books and magazines in audio and braille formats, along with specialized playback equipment and reader advisory services, to qualified Nevada residents with visual or physical limitations. Key goals include promoting program awareness through outreach, training staff and patrons to utilize program resources effectively, providing services to underserved populations, and ensuring effective statewide program administration.

The council discussed the upcoming biennial report to the governor, focusing on concise data and stories about libraries in Nevada, including Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funding. They addressed financial challenges faced by libraries and the importance of promoting achievements in technology and innovation. Updates were provided on Nevada Public Librarian Certification regulations, aiming for a modernized and accessible system. The administrator reported staffing updates and the upcoming legislative session, with potential discussions on financial literacy in higher education. Plans for quarterly discussions with library directors and a January roundtable event were also discussed.

The strategic plan for Nevada's early childhood system focuses on ensuring children are safe, healthy, and thriving during their first eight years. Key areas include promoting high-quality health services, supporting family engagement, and advancing early learning and development. The plan emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and local solutions to support children and families in achieving their full potential.

Nevada's LSTA 5-year plan for 2018-2022 supports statewide programs such as subgrants, continuing education, coding in the library, Nevada Talking Books, youth services, literary programs, rural bookmobiles, public library survey, ILL support, and statewide databases. The plan evaluation will inform strategic priorities and projects for federal year 2023.

The meeting included a review and approval of the minutes from the August 27th, 2020 meeting. The council also reviewed, discussed, and approved the State Council on Libraries and Literacy's 2021 Report to the Governor and Legislature. The council reviewed, discussed, and approved statewide Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) priorities for the federal year 2021 cycle, in accordance with NRS 380A, and as identified in the Nevada Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) 5 year plan, 2018-2022. An overview was given of the Nevada State Library's programmatic role in the Supporting and Advancing Nevada's Dislocated Individuals (SANDI) project. The council discussed legislative session issues, including BDR 76, Certified School Librarians; the Nevada Department of Education Library Card Project; and BDR 167, Executive Library Director Qualifications.