Solutions for Rural Advocacy: Using Power Mapping to Build Community Relationships
Strong relationships with local stakeholders are essential for rural and small libraries, and power mapping can help you identify who those stakeholders are.
 ARSL is co-sponsoring this ALA eLearning webinar with Library Freedom Project and LittleSis. ARSL Executive Director Kate Laughlin will moderate a conversation with:
- Tyler Hahn, Director of Cherokee Public Library and ARSL’s 2027 Board President-Elect
- Jennie Garner, Director of North Liberty Library and 2023 ARSL President
- Tess Wilson, Library Freedom Project
- Munira Lokhandwala, LittleSis
The presenters will share how they build community and work with local leaders, including leaders who see library services differently. You’ll also work through a power mapping exercise and leave with a plan for strengthening your relationships with community leaders and members.
Thursday, November 19 @ 10:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM MT / 12:00 PM MT / 1:00 PM ET | Online via Zoom. Captions provided, and all registrants receive the recording.
ARSL Research Uncovers that Approximately 40% of U.S. Public Libraries Are Run by Solo Library Workers
Using data from IMLS's annual Public Libraries Survey, ARSL found that approximately 40% of U.S. public libraries are run by "solo" library workers, meaning three or fewer full-time staff covering all open hours. This finding is part of an ongoing IMLS-funded ARSL project that will guide how we address the professional development needs of the library workers who keep these vital community hubs running.
One Staff Member, One Budget, One Community
What does building a diverse collection look like when you're working with a small budget, a small staff, and a community where everyone knows everyone? ARSL members shared their experiences in a recent survey, and their answers became our newest article in Book Riot. From tight budgets to creative workarounds, this piece is written by our members as much as by us. Thank you for trusting us with your stories.
ARSL and ULC Call on the FCC to Maintain E-Rate for All Public Libraries
ARSL and the Urban Libraries Council (ULC) filed joint comments urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to keep E-Rate available to public libraries of every size. In many rural and small communities, the public library is the only place to get free, reliable internet access, and losing E-Rate support would put that access at risk.
ARSL Awarded Two IMLS Grants to Launch National Certifications
ARSL received two grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to build national certification programs: one converting the ARSL Leadership Institute into an online, asynchronous credential, and one expanding Libraries 101 into a national certification in core librarianship skills for new and early-career staff.
Shop the ARSL Store
Apparel, drinkware, bags, and accessories featuring the ARSL brand and conference designs. Perfect for holiday gifts, staff and trustee appreciation, or celebrating retirements.
ARSL Access to Information Statement
Developed by the Advocacy Committee and approved by the Board, this statement helps libraries defend against materials challenges and other threats to intellectual freedom.
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