The Voice of Rural & Small Libraries
OUR MISSION
ARSL builds strong communities through advocacy, professional development, and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries.
Coming Soon
A new arsl.org
is on the way
Our new website and member portal will be easier to use and more accessible for every library professional, all in one place.
Launching this December
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What This Means for Members
You'll still find us at arsl.org, and your membership will carry over automatically. Once we go live, we'll email you instructions for logging in to the new portal.
To make sure that email reaches you, please check that your email address is up to date before the switch.
Want to know what to expect? Get the timeline, what's changing, and step-by-step guides on our What to Expect page.
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 Annual Conference
ARSL's annual conference is the premier conference for rural & small library professionals, advocates, and supporters. Save the date for #ARSL2027:
September 15-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin!
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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.
Want to Know More About ARSL?
Join our mailing list to get the weekly ARSL Office Dispatch, with news, events, and other important updates. ARSL members also receive our monthly Grants Opportunity Digest!
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