In this case, the Nebraska Literature Festival, inaugurated by the Nebraska Center for the Book in 1990. My wife, Ruth, and I are delighted to provide financial support for the center's national program, and we invite others to join us through their tax-deductible gifts. He also outlined the national center's plans for 1997 until 2000, briefly describing five projects in which state center participation was both needed and welcome. Pat Bates, coordinator of the Maryland Center for the Book, began the discussion of organizational issues by reporting on a survey regarding advisory boards, staffing, financial status and related matters that she had conducted among the state centers. The size of boards and staffs varies considerably, as do methods of operation.
Most states rely heavily on part-time help and volunteers.
Half of the state centers are located in state libraries. Seventeen of the centers now have Web sites. John Cole explained the approval process for state centers. When its proposal is approved, a center is granted affiliate status for a three-year period. Renewals also are for three years.