About ARSL
“The Voice of Small & Rural Libraries”
The Association for Rural & Small Libraries, Inc. is a network of persons throughout the country dedicated to the positive growth and development of libraries. ARSL believes in the value of rural and small libraries and strives to create resources and services that address national, state, and local priorities for libraries situated in rural communities. Though not entirely comprehensive, in addition to the Mission and Objectives, ARSL serves membership and constituents in the following ways:
- Develops a place to join in the conversation about rural and small libraries
- Gives a unique rural and small perspective and expand the reach and access to information
- Offers opportunities to exchange ideas online and in person with each other
- Maintains a members-only listserv where meaningful discussion can take place
- Provides forums for rural blogs and other social networking sites as part of our resources
- Shares successes, stories, challenges and ways to solve barriers to access unique to the sustainability of rural librarianship
- Creates sample policies relevant to your community library
- Plans an annual rural & small conference catered specifically to the perceived needs of rural librarians
- Increases recognition, awareness, and visibility for rural librarians
- Act as a liaison between librarians and legislative matters and advocate on behalf of rural libraries
- Offers scholarships to ARSL conferences
- Partners with State and local organizations to strengthen relationships
ARSL Mission: To provide a network of people and materials to support rural and small library staff, volunteers, and trustees to integrate the library thoroughly with the life and work of the community it serves.
Learn more about our board of directors »
