Nebraska's Regional Library Systems
The Nebraska Regional Library Systems consist of four non-profit
corporations governed by boards representative of libraries and citizens in
the region. The four systems were established to provide access to improved
library services through the cooperation of all types of libraries and media
centers within the counties included in each System area. Each system offers
a variety of services such as regular newsletters, meetings of library
staff, workshops, consulting, and planning reflective of the needs within
the region. The systems help the Nebraska Library Commission meet its goals
on a more localized level.
The Nebraska Library Commission has as its mission statewide promotion, development and coordination of library services. As the state library agency, the Commission is an advocate for the library and information service needs of all Nebraskans. Toward this purpose, the Commission has agreements with Nebraska’s four regional multi-type library Systems:
- to provide a mechanism for development of cooperative programs among libraries and communities to address library service needs;
- to work with the Commission and libraries to improve local and regional service development; and
- to promote and enhance libraries and library services within the regional system area.
System Reorganization Information
Nebraska's regional library systems have reorganized, effective January 1, 2015. Four systems have adjusted their bylaws and incorporation documents to reconfigure their system boundaries and revise counties served. They have changed their names and their boards have reorganized to assure broad representation. Two systems have dissolved. A summary of the changes is outlined below:
- Central Plains Library System – includes (with some additions and subtractions) counties served by the former Meridian and Republican Valley library systems. The System’s main office will be located in Hastings, with a satellite office in Kearney.
- Southeast Library System – Includes counties served by the previous Southeast Library System, plus additional counties. The system office will remain in Lincoln.
- Three Rivers Library System – includes (with some additions and subtractions) counties served by the former Eastern and Northeast library systems. The system office will initially be located in Omaha, but may move once a permanent system director is hired.
- Western Library System – Includes all counties served by the former Panhandle Library System, plus additional counties. The system office will remain in Scottsbluff.
Regional Library Systems Configuration Task Force - Preliminary
Report: March 14, 2014
Webinar Discussion April 22, 2014:
Regional Library Systems Configuration Task Force Preliminary Report
Supported in part by the United States Institute of
Museum and Library Services under provisions of the Library Services and
Technology Act and/or state funding appropriated by the Nebraska
legislature, granted and administered by the Nebraska Library Commission.