The Association for Rural & Small Libraries

The Voice of Rural & Small Libraries

Our Mission: ARSL builds strong communities through advocacy, professional development, and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries.

The Benefits of Membership

ARSL proudly supports and represents rural & small library staff. We welcome library staff of all kinds, partners, and ally organizations to learn more about ARSL membership. 

Become a Member

ARSL Annual Conference

ARSL's annual conference is the premiere conference for rural and small library professionals, advocates, and supporters. Mark your calendars for 2021 to join us October 20-23 in beautiful Reno/Sparks, Nevada!

2021 Conference
 

#ARSL2021 Call for Session Proposals

Do you have an idea for a great #ARSL2021 program? You are the expert on small and rural libraries. From four-hour preconferences to ten-minute Spark Talks, there’s a place for you to share your expertise. All program proposals are due April 27, 2021.

The 2021 ARSL Conference will be held at the Nugget Hotel in Reno/Sparks, Nevada, from October 20-23. We hope to see you for the full in-person experience, though we will also have select virtual offerings for those who can’t make the trip this time.

Our committee is excited to announce our 2021 theme: The Biggest Little Library Conference. Our libraries may be small, but our community is mighty. As we come together to share ideas and learn from each other in Reno, the “Biggest Little City,” the possibilities are huge.

Submit a proposal here!

Catch the ARSL TRAIN! Libraries and COVID-19: Information, Resources and Tools

Join us on April 29 for the next free ARSL TRAIN webinar! 

Libraries and COVID-19: Information, Resources and Tools
More than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries continue to adapt and respond while faced with the challenges of redesigning services to limit the spread of the virus. The REopening Archives, Libraries and Museums (REALM) project is providing libraries with science-based information to support local decision-making by conducting research and creating free resources for libraries to use. Presenters will share information about these REALM tools and what is on the horizon for the REALM project, as well the frontline staff perspective on creating and implementing library procedures and engaging library staff and the community during a pandemic. This webinar will be free for all.

Presenters: Jennie Garner, Library Director, North Liberty Library (Iowa) and Kendra Morgan, Senior Program Manager, OCLC

Register here!

ARSL Statement on Anti-Racism

Because Black lives matter and library professionals can be agents of change in rural and small communities across the nation, ARSL urges our members to stand up and speak out to end systemic oppression and police brutality. The ARSL Board of Directors is in active discussion about how we will commit to anti-racist work within our association.

Silence is compliance.