Welcome to the Nebraska Library Association

The Nebraska Library Association supports and promotes all libraries, library media centers and library services in the state. Its foremost concerns are the professional development of its members, library advocacy, and open access to information for all citizens.


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  Create an account in Sched, our conference app, here if you haven't already!

The Sched app lets you build a customized schedule, easily network with other professionals, and access up-to-date conference information. Once you've created an account, you can access Sched through the app or a web browser (we recommend the app for easier login and schedule access). Once you have logged in to Sched, please update your privacy settings in the app to allow other attendees to see you in the attendee registry, if you prefer. Navigate to your profile's Privacy Settings, and turn on "Make my profile and schedule public," and "Make my QR Code Public" Sched also has a chat feature. Feel free to chat with your fellow conference participants!

Our Schedule Via Sched

  PLTS Conference Scholarship Applications Now Open

The Public Library & Technical Services (PLTS) Section is pleased to offer three $500 scholarships to PLTS members to attend the 2026 NLA/MPLA Conference in La Vista, Nebraska. The scholarships are intended to help members participate in this year's conference. Deadline is September 30, ignore the August 31 deadline.

Apply now

  Golden Sower Award nominee bookmarks

Celebrate the 2026–2027 Golden Sower Award nominees with free printable bookmarks, download yours today!

Keynote Speakers

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View Keynote Speaker Information >>

Jewel Rodgers

When: Wednesday, October 14, 6:30 p.m. — Omaha Public Library

Jewel Rodgers, Nebraska State Poet and award-winning spoken word artist, has inspired audiences across the state through poetry, performances, and workshops. In her keynote, she reflects on her tenure as State Poet and shares works exploring growth, resilience, and creativity.

Kelvin Watson

When: Thursday, October 15, 10:00–10:45 a.m.

Kelvin Watson, executive director of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District, is a nationally recognized leader in library innovation. His keynote explores expanding library access, strengthening community connections, and reimagining libraries for the future.

Alex Kava

When: Thursday, October 15, 2:15–3:00 p.m.

Alex Kava is a bestselling author known for her Maggie O’Dell and Ryder Creed K-9 mystery thrillers. Her keynote explores 25 years of writing, the challenges and rewards of publishing, and, of course, dogs.

Juli Burney

When: Friday, October 16, 3:30–4:15 p.m.

Juli Burney is an award-winning humorist, author, and communication specialist. Her keynote, Read the Room!, explores how humor can reduce stress, navigate change, and build stronger relationships in libraries.

Dr. Maria McCauley

NLA Annual Meeting Opening Speaker
When: NLA Annual Meeting Friday, October 16, 11:30 a.m.

Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries for the City of Cambridge and 2026–2027 President of the American Library Association, is a nationally recognized library leader. She champions inclusive library services, community engagement, and innovative leadership.

 

Looking Back at Advocacy Day 2026

Thank you to everyone who participated in NLA Advocacy Day 2026. We’re grateful for the opportunity to come together, share the impact of libraries, and advocate for communities across Nebraska.

View the photo gallery ►

 

Explore Previous NLA Meetings

Browse our Previous Meetings page to revisit past NLA events, including conference sessions, section meetings, and Advocacy Day. It’s a great way to look back at recent programs and stay connected with the work happening across the association.

View Previous Meetings ►

Awards and Scholarships

Golden Sower Award

The Golden Sower Award Nebraska’s children’s choice literary award, inviting K–12 students statewide to vote for their favorite books from annual nominee lists. Sponsored by the Nebraska Library Association, the program encourages a lifelong love of reading and celebrates excellence in children’s literature.

Nixon Scholarship

The Louise A. Nixon Scholarship Fund was established to help each recipient reach for Nixon’s goals of dedication and vision. This scholarship supports students who pursue full- or part-time graduate-level library education.

Meritorious Service Award and Mari Sandoz Award

The Nebraska Library Association presents the Meritorious Service and Mari Sandoz Awards, honoring excellence in library advocacy and Nebraska’s literary world. View the awards page or submit your nominations .

PLTS Awards

The Public Library and Trustee Section of the Nebraska Library Association presents the Excalibur Award to honor an outstanding public librarian’s career achievements and service. The Advocacy Award recognizes individuals or groups demonstrating exceptional support for their local library community.

Mad Hatter Award

The purpose of the Mad Hatter Award is to recognize an individual member of the Nebraska Library Profession who has made an outstanding contribution to School, Children’s and Young People’s librarianship and library development.

Gumdrop Books NLA Conference Scholarship

The Gumdrop Books NLA Conference Scholarship supports professional growth by helping a Nebraska librarian attend the annual NLA conference. The scholarship covers registration and helps offset hotel or transportation costs.

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