ArLA 2024 Annual Conference

This session showcases the resources and services offered by the Arkansas Public Policy Center, including examples of past library collaborations and activities focused on voter resources. The Center aims to provide Arkansans with research-based information and education on pressing public issues, defined as those with multiple viewpoints and widespread consequences.

In 2021, the Arkansas River Valley Regional Library System (ARVRLS) partnered with the Center to translate voter education materials for the state. The presentation will review this partnership and suggest ideas for current and future projects.

Participants will learn about:

• Topics and resources available to the public
• The importance of public participation in public issues
• How to obtain and distribute materials related to public issues

The presentation aligns with the conference theme "The Next Chapter," emphasizing advocacy, awareness, and public action, and illustrates how libraries can foster civic engagement in their communities.

Libraries are becoming safe spaces that offer a variety of services, including literacy and daily needs support, for all ages. Volunteer programs, similar to storytimes or book clubs, are especially useful for teens needing volunteer experience for graduation. In January 2022, Jennifer redefined the library's role in supporting teens, doubling the number of volunteers and volunteer hours by focusing on literacy and accountability. The Springdale Public Library now offers inclusive volunteering opportunities for students in grades 6-12.

Young volunteers perform tasks like cleaning, straightening, and shelving, developing skills such as eye-hand coordination, attention to detail, time management, and following directions. Jennifer ensures valuable experiences through follow-ups and continuous dialogue. Volunteers also work on community projects, creating materials for community partners. These efforts benefit the library and foster a sense of community and active citizenship among the young volunteers.

The presenter is requesting that attendees wear masks during the session. ArLA will provide them for you. She is currently has an immune-compromised disease. Thank you!

Gracie Roper, a J.D. candidate at the Bowen School of Law, will discuss recent trends of censorship in libraries, the constitutional problems belying book bans, and a response from some state legislatures, which is to enact legislation banning book bans.

By the end of the session, participants will learn about recent legislation enacted by state legislatures that threaten First Amendment rights of the U.S. Constitution. Become familiar with the precedent and history of legislation around censorship. Find a potential path forward through enacting legislation that bans book bans.

This program explores the "next chapter" of laws that support First Amendment rights, as well as reviews previous chapters of what has already been well established in American law.