Weeding Your Library Collection Without the Stress – Every library needs to weed its collection, but deciding what stays and what goes can be daunting. This guide offers practical tips—like using reports, setting policies, and handling patron concerns—to make the process easier and more effective.
Deborah Dutcher – ARSL Board Member Deborah Dutcher shares powerful insights on career longevity, retirement planning, and staying relevant in library work.
#ARSL2024 Countdown! – Only four days until #ARSL2024—who’s joining us in Springfield, in person or virtually? Let us know in the comments.
ReaderZone – ReaderZone is helping libraries engage readers and track progress, have you tried it at your library? Tell us about your experience
Donna Forbis, Illinois Prairie District Public Library – PAWsome Reading Dogs are making a big impact at Illinois Prairie District Public Library, helping young readers gain confidence with non-judgmental, furry listeners.
ARSL 2024 Conference Buddy Program – First time at #ARSL2024? Our Conference Buddy program pairs new attendees with seasoned pros to help navigate the experience.
Summer Reading Wrap-Up – Summer Reading is winding down—share your favorite moments and photos from this year’s adventures at your library.
ARSL Spiritwear Day (2024) – Get ready to show off your ARSL pride by wearing your favorite ARSL gear at Spiritwear Day on September 13—shop now to grab yours.
Amy Stone & Drew Wichterman – ARSL was proudly represented at ALA 2024, where members shared insights on community outreach, ESL programs, and leadership strategies for small libraries.
ARSL TRAIN Series – Stay connected and keep learning with ARSL TRAIN—monthly workshops, roundtables, and networking events designed for rural and small library professionals.
Burnsville Public Library – Burnsville Public Library’s after-school STEM program started small but grew to serve over 100 kids a week—a game-changer for their small-town community.
Ready NOW Supporting Youth and Families During Crisis Initiative – The Ready NOW initiative is equipping library staff with tools to support youth and families during crises—plus a $2,000 stipend for participating libraries.
Kathy Zappitello – ARSL Past President Kathy Zappitello reflects on how joining the ARSL Board gave her the support, connections, and teamwork needed to thrive in a small library.
Sherry Scheline – Camp Library at Donnelly Public Library provides an immersive outdoor learning experience—complete with teepees, podcasting, and even a Hogwarts-inspired camp.
Tanner Ames – Inspired by the annual ARSL Conference, Tanner Ames launched a local author festival and writing group, discovering a hidden community of published authors in his small town.
Jennie Garner – ARSL Past President Jennie Garner shares how the conference helped her find her tribe—a network of brilliant, creative librarians making a difference nationwide.
Tyler Hahn – Huge congrats to Tyler Hahn, 2024 ARSL Midwestern Rep, on being named a 2024 Library Journal Mover and Shaker.
Todd Deck – The Sacramento Public Library is bringing the community outdoors with bilingual birdwatching, body-positive hikes, and upcoming public art installations, all thanks to their Parks and Tranquility Grant.
Amanda Doherty – Building Community in Central Illinois, One Patron at a Time. As a dedicated ARSL member and small-town advocate, Amanda shares her journey into librarianship, her love for rural life, and a program that’s bringing holiday cheer with a twist.
Judy Pruitt – Get to know Jerseyville Public Library Director Judy Pruitt, whose journey from education to librarianship highlights the vibrant spirit of small-town leadership and community connection.
