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.

Juli Wald – Meet Middlebury Public Library Director Juli Wald, whose adventurous path to librarianship reflects a deep dedication to inclusive service and community connection in small-town Indiana.

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.

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.

Mellissa Clark – Discover how Georgia library manager Mellissa Clark channels her creativity, empathy, and introverted strength into leading transformative programs for readers of all ages.

Jen Stevenson – Meet Virginia library assistant Jen Stevenson, whose passion for service and advocacy brings creativity, resilience, and heart to her rural library work.