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.
ARSL's annual conference is the premiere conference for rural and small library professionals, advocates, and supporters. Mark your calendars for 2023 to join us in Wichita, KS September 20 - 23!
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 11:00 am-12:30 pm PT / 1:00-2:30 pm CT / 2:00-3:30 pm ET
Attempts to ban or censor materials come in many shapes and from several different directions. When they originate with concerned parents or community members, it is always important to engage in difficult conversations. But when they become politicized or performative, they may be driven by outside agendas and not legitimate local concerns. In this session, EveryLibrary's executive director John Chrastka will share ways to better understand the differences and be properly equipped to engage the issues, organizations, and political philosophies driving these divisions.
Grant Opportunity: Sustainable & Resilient New England Libraries
Through the continued generosity of an anonymous private foundation, the Association for Rural & Small Libraries is pleased to offer this grant opportunity in support of sustainability and resiliency in New England libraries! Each eligible* library may submit one application with one fundable project. Applications are due November 22, 2022.
Awards will range from $5,000 - $15,000, and can be put toward projects such as:
Weatherizing libraries to protect them from extreme temperatures
Facility sustainability initiatives, including things like LED lighting conversion and solarization, potentially leading to Sustainable Library Certification
Developing Green Business Support programs to connect local businesses with sustainability resources
Community resiliency outreach initiatives, including community gardens, food banks, seasonal CSA programs, community swap events, Repair Fairs, etc.
Expanded technology resources to create or reinforce community technology infrastructure
*Eligible libraries must meet the IMLS definition of a small and/or rural library, but do not need to be active members of ARSL. Libraries must be located in one of the six New England states as defined by our partner foundation: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. If you are uncertain whether your library qualifies please email the ARSL Office.
Shop the ARSL Store!
The wait is finally over - the new YEAR-ROUND ARSL Store is open for business! This shop features official ARSL-branded merchandise, as well as our 2022 Conference and Retro Conference gear.
In addition to the traditional tee shirts and sweatshirts the ARSL Store will offer branded stationery items, drinkware, and accessories to let you show your ARSL spirit all year round. Consider adding some ARSL swag to employee recognitions, Trustee gifts, and retirement baskets!
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.
ARSL Access to Information Statement
The ARSL Access to Information Statement was developed by the Advocacy Committee and approved by the Board following multiple member requests to provide a tool for defending against the increase in materials challenges and other intellectual freedom assaults. This statement can be used alongside any local, state, or national position statements already utilized by your library to reinforce your organization's commitment to the tenets of intellectual freedom.
ARSL Statement of Support for Libraries in Ukraine
In the face of increasing hostility and escalating military action in Ukraine the ARSL Board of Directors has issued a statement of support of those impacted by the war. Included in that statement is a call to action to aid our colleagues working in the many rural and small libraries of Ukraine to ensure the spread of accurate information regarding the conflict as a means to support democracy and freedom of expression.
