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NLS on the Move
February 25, 2021
The latest on our new initiatives

Getting the word out about our new certifying authorities
Two weeks ago, the new language on NLS certifying authorities<https://www.loc.gov/nls/network/2021/02/17/operations-alert-21-19-change-of-certifying-authorities/> was published in the Federal Register. Now reading specialists, educators, librarians, and school psychologists can certify the eligibility of applicants with reading disabilities such as dyslexia.
If you haven't already, please update your library's application language and other materials and be certain that all your staff members are aware of these changes. Text for the new NLS application is available on the Network Library website and a fillable, accessible version will soon be available on the NLS public website.
We know that libraries are enthusiastic about spreading the word about this easing of access for individuals with reading disabilities. We've put together some ideas of organizations that work on the state and local level that you may consider contacting. We've also developed a letter/email message that you can find under "Outreach Services" on the Network Library website.

*      Look for local resources like dyslexia tutors, dyslexia reading programs, and meet-ups for parents of children with special needs or reading disabilities.

*      Most colleges have programs to help students with reading disabilities. College Choice ranks the "50 most disability-friendly colleges," with some information on resources available at each (dyslexia is included under Learning Disabilities), at www.collegechoice.net/college-resources-for-students-with-disabilities<https://www.collegechoice.net/college-resources-for-students-with-disabilities>.

*      Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers work with families of infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities. Many of these state centers have websites with their own resource lists: www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center<https://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center>.

*      The International Dyslexia Association has branches in most states: https://dyslexiaida.org/in-your-area-with-global-partners.

*      There are Children's Dyslexia Centers in thirteen states in the Midwest and Northeast: www.childrensdyslexiacenters.org<https://www.childrensdyslexiacenters.org/>.

*      Visit https://member.pta.org/Get-Involved/PTA-Local-Unit-Lookup to find PTAs in your area.

*      Reading Rockets, www.readingrockets.org/resourceinfo/states<https://www.readingrockets.org/resourceinfo/states>, is a multimedia project that offers research-based reading strategies, lessons, and activities.

*      Find state contacts for the National Center on Accessible Education Materials at https://aem.cast.org/supporting/aem-state-contacts-sea-information.html.<https://aem.cast.org/supporting/aem-state-contacts-sea-information.html>

*      The National Association of Special Education Teachers' website has a variety of resources and local organizations. Search for "dyslexia" at: www.naset.org/index.php.<http://www.naset.org/index.php>
We also encourage you to share your best outreach strategies by posting on the LBPH listserv or by emailing Kristen Fernekes at [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>.
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Reminder:  Annual surveys<https://www.loc.gov/nls/network/2021/02/16/operations-alert-21-18-fy2020-annual-surveys/> are due March 5. And don't forget to let your patrons know about the free Matthew Whitaker concert<https://www.loc.gov/item/event-400462/matthew-whitaker-in-concert/2021-03-03/> next Wednesday, March 3, at 8 p.m. EST, which kicks off the NLS 90th Anniversary.
Watch for the next issue of On the Move in your inbox on March 25!