Ryan Kroh

Council members participated in a focus group to assist the North Dakota State Library (NDSL) with setting priorities in services and programs. The next quarterly meeting is scheduled for March 27, 2026.

The meeting included discussions on the State Library report, focusing on the upcoming biennium and the NDSL's new mission statement, as well as strategies for promoting awareness and marketing for NDSL grants. The election of officers resulted in the selection of a new Chair and Vice Chair. The council discussed the Library Vision, including the Grant Management System, the next grant round, library contact for grants, grant webinars, and final reports. The Legislative Session was reviewed, covering the ILL Bridge, bills passed, and the NDSL budget. Outgoing members were recognized for their service.

The North Dakota Library Coordinating Council (NDLCC) meeting included discussions on the legislative session, where bills followed by the NDSL were reviewed. The council also discussed a Grant Management System, a Tribal Grant opportunity, and the LV Tribal College Grant Round, where decisions were made to deny certain grant applications and approve funding for others. The rubric used for scoring grant applications was reviewed, and suggestions were made to limit each grant to one item request. Council members volunteered to create videos for grant rounds, and discussions were held regarding new member packets and potential improvements. The next meeting will include the election of a new Chair and Vice Chair.

The Library Services & Technology Act (LSTA) Five-Year Plan for North Dakota State Library focuses on enhancing information access, strengthening institutional capacity, and promoting lifelong learning. Key goals include expanding access to materials and electronic resources, providing professional development for library staff, and supporting literacy initiatives. The plan prioritizes collaboration with various organizations to maximize service potential and address the diverse needs of North Dakota's libraries, state government, and residents.

The council reviewed grant applications for 2007, focusing on digital audio books and the potential for a statewide contract. Discussions included the use of WorldCat for statewide resource searching, the exploration of a statewide e-audio program, and the allocation of grant funds. Specific grant awards were made to several libraries, contingent upon site visits for some. Future plans included another grant round, focusing on participation in the statewide online catalog through WorldCat, and training opportunities for librarians. The council also discussed the need for updated grant guidelines and the possibility of holding future meetings in various locations throughout the state.