Key Resources for Libraries
NICCL has compiled a valuable collection of resources designed to support public libraries in their efforts to grow and thrive.
Professional Development
Conferences/Workshops
Explore a selection of curated conferences designed to enhance your professional growth and development.
Upgrade: Enhancing Library Services with technology
The University of Madison Wisconsin is offering this dynamic two-day conference in Madison, WI dedicated to exploring the intersection of libraries and technology.
Indiana Digital Government Summit
GovTech sponsors an annual Indiana Digital Government Summit. This is an event that brings together public sector leaders and technology professionals to explore innovative solutions to solve government problems.
The Difference is You
The DIY Conference is a training event for support staff and paraprofessionals created by the Indiana State Library’s Professional Development Committee.
ILF
The Indiana Library Federation offers an Annual state conference in Indianapolis and many Regional conferences throughout the state.
Cybersecurity summit
GovTech sponsors an annual Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit which focuses on addressing the unique cybersecurity challenges faced by the public sector.
Indiana State Library Events
The Indiana State Library offers many events throughout the year. Check out their Events calendar.
Professional development
Training/Tutorials
Explore this list featuring beginner-friendly tutorials, free or discounted training programs, and professional development resources.
Windows 11
Beginner video tutorial for Windows 11 on YouTube.
GCF Learn Free
Check out the Technology Training offered by GCF Learning.
udemy
“All the skills you need in one place. From critical skills to technical topics, Udemy supports your professional development.” The Indiana Office of Technology offers free Udemy accounts for state and local governments, including libraries.
Microsoft Training
Microsoft and the Indiana Office of Technology are working together to help you learn the skills you need to be successful with Azure and other Microsoft technologies. Sharpen your technical skills and knowledge of Microsoft solutions by enrolling in interactive courses and training designed for your role and advance your career by getting certified.
LinkedIN Learning
The Indiana State Library offers Indiana library staff complementary access to the entire LinkedIn Learning course library.
Purchasing
Vendor Discounts
Explore this list, which highlights discounted software and hardware options for libraries, including SHI’s state-awarded Quantity Purchasing Agreements, Microsoft’s nonprofit program, and TechSoup’s donated and discounted technology services.
SHI.com
SHI was directly awarded 2 QPAs (Quantity Purchasing Agreements) by the state of Indiana. Libraries can take advantage of their discounted pricing on hardware and software.
Canva non-profit
Canva for Nonprofits includes all the premium features of Canva Teams and is 100% free for registered nonprofits. NOTE: You may need to register under your Friends group.
Microsoft non-profit
Microsoft offers special discounted Microsoft software pricing to libraries through their non-profit program. Also check out TechSoup for additional Microsoft discount pricing.
tech soup
TechSoup provides libraries with access to donated or discounted software, hardware, and technology services, enabling them to improve their services without straining their budgets.
Library-related
Hardware/Software
Explore these essential tools and technologies tailored for libraries, along with companies that provide discounted pricing to support library operations and budgets.
knowbe4
“KnowBe4 is the world’s first and largest New-school Security Awareness Training and simulated phishing platform that helps you manage the ongoing problem of social engineering.” The Indiana Office of Technology offers KnowBe4 free to state and local government.
crowdstrike
CrowdStrike provides advanced cybersecurity solutions, including endpoint security, threat intelligence, and incident response, through their cloud-based Falcon platform. Their services deliver real-time protection against cyber threats. The Indiana Office of Technology offers Crowdstrike free to state and local government.
microsoft non-profit
Microsoft offers special discounted Microsoft software pricing to libraries through their non-profit program. Also check out TechSoup for additional Microsoft discount pricing.
canva non-profit
Canva for Nonprofits includes all the premium features of Canva Teams and is 100% free for registered nonprofits. NOTE: You may need to register under your Friends group.
magic desktop
Magic Desktop is “Edutainment software suite for children 2 to 12.”
owl
NICCL enhances virtual meetings with the Owl, an intelligent 360° conference camera, microphone, and speaker that adapts over time.
action1
Action 1: Patch Automation & Management – Seamlessly remediate vulnerabilities across multiple operating systems and over 400 third-party applications. Enjoy free coverage for up to 200 endpoints
Collaboration
NICCL Listserv
By joining NICCL, you gain access to the NICCL Listserv—a vibrant community where members exchange questions, share expertise, and explore topics on libraries and technology.
purchasing
Websites
NICCL members rely on various website hosting services, builders, and content management systems to create and manage their sites. With accessibility gaining momentum as a key focus among Indiana libraries, we’ve compiled helpful resources for you to explore.
IOT
The Indiana Office of Technology offers no-cost website options for all government agencies, including libraries.
ISL
The Indiana State Library offers ConnectIN, which is free for public libraries without a current online presence and those having difficulty maintaining their existing site.
TechSoup
TechSoup offers discounted website options. They have low-cost WordPress hosting and Wix website hosting discounts available.
Accessibility Testing
Google Lighthouse offers free accessibility testing.
free/low-cost
State
Indiana offers libraries comprehensive support through services like professional development, collaborative networks, and access to tools, grants, and resources that enhance technology literacy and ease operational challenges. These combined efforts empower libraries to adapt to evolving technology and better serve their communities.
Indiana State library
The Indiana State Library provides a variety of valuable services, such as professional development, website hosting, grant opportunities, access to free databases, and listservs for collaboration.
Indiana office of technology
Many of the services IOT provides for local governments are free, easy to access and implement, and they help reduce the burdens that come with the massive responsibility libraries face.
SLCGP Grant committee
The Indiana State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program Planning Committee will develop, approve, implement, monitor, review, and revise, as appropriate, a strategic plan that establishes funding priorities and approves cybersecurity projects. The projects should identify, assess, and address cyber risks within and across Indiana’s state and local government organizations.
gmis
“GMIS Indiana is an association of local government information technology professionals dedicated to fostering an environment of sharing as it relates to topics affecting the vastly changing world of technology in the public sector. They meet to learn about new trends, discuss common problems, and learn from each other.”
NICCL
That’s right—NICCL membership is your gateway to a dynamic, collaborative space where library staff unite to discuss and explore technology. Members actively share insights and gain knowledge to strengthen tech literacy within their organizations and communities.
IN-ISAC
“The Indiana Information Sharing and Analysis Center is an entity developed by the State of Indiana and key partners to mitigate cybersecurity risks among state agencies through the sharing of threat information and collaboration on strategies. It provides real-time network monitoring, vulnerability identification, and threat warnings.”
CyberTrack
Indiana’s Local Government Cybersecurity Assessment Program. The project puts libraries in contact with top tier cybersecurity experts, and provide them practical, prioritized advice about doable, powerful cybersecurity fundamentals.
free/low-cost
Federal
Explore this list which highlights key Federal cybersecurity resources for libraries and local governments,
CIS
The Center for Internet Security provides cybersecurity resources and services to strengthen libraries’ (and other local governments’) defenses against cyber threats. Their offerings include free CIS SecureSuite membership, tools like CIS CSAT Pro, MS-ISAC support, and access to vetted solutions through the CIS CyberMarket.
CISA
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency offers a variety of resources and support to help local governments strengthen their cybersecurity posture. These include free tools and services, technical assistance, training, and grant programs.
MS-ISAC
Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center is a division of CIS. The MS-ISAC mission is to improve the overall cybersecurity posture of the nation’s state and local governments through coordination, collaboration, cooperation, and increased communication.