Chris Haeffner: Nebraska School Librarians Association (NSLA) Meritorious Service Award
Background
The Nebraska School Librarians Association (NSLA) recently honored Lincoln Public Schools Director of Library Services Chris Haeffner with the Meritorious Service Award. This award is granted by the NSLA Board, and is based upon service and contributions to the school library media profession.
Explanation
Lincoln Public Schools Director of Library Services Chris Haeffner was recently honored by the Nebraska School Librarians Association (NSLA) with the Meritorious Service Award. Dr. Haeffner is only the 11th person in 55 years to have received the honor.
Dr. Haeffner has been at the forefront of many initiatives since her first day at LPS in August 1996. She has spearheaded district citizenship education lessons across all grade levels, curated MOSAIC which includes a wide variety of books and online resources, worked with a team to digitize yearbooks for the community, and has been instrumental in renovating library spaces at all LPS buildings.
Colleagues wrote:
“Chris is a strong leader because she has a clear vision for our libraries that puts students and reading at the center. Her passion for creating welcoming spaces and providing great books really shows.”
“Chris makes people want to be librarians. She’s not only an exceptional leader for our district, but also a respected voice at the state and national levels. Her innovative ideas and willingness to openly share what we’ve built have elevated librarianship far beyond our own schools, impacting educators across the country.”
Proposal
That the Lincoln Board of Education adopt the following resolution:
WHEREAS, Chris Haeffner serves as Lincoln Public Schools Library Services Director, and was recently honored by the Nebraska School Librarians Association with the Meritorious Service Award; and
WHEREAS, Chris Haeffner continuously exhibits passion and dedication for creating welcoming spaces and curating materials that reflect the diverse community in which our schools serve; and
WHEREAS, Chris Haeffner is dedicated to ensuring library services is a vital part of each student’s educational experience at Lincoln Public Schools; and
WHEREAS, Chris Haeffner inspires others into the profession through her leadership and tireless advocacy; and
WHEREAS, Chris Haeffner is widely respected among her colleagues, both within Lincoln Public Schools and across the state and country;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Lincoln Board of Education
Does hereby congratulate Chris Haeffner being recognized by the Nebraska School Librarians Association with the Meritorious Service Award.
Updated October 14, 2025
