State of AR Libraries

Your voice is making a difference!

On April 9, the Arkansas House rejected Senate Bill 536 (SB 536). In response, a new bill was introduced, Senate Bill 640 (SB 640). SB 640 passed on April 15, 2025. 

These bills propose:

+ Eliminating the Arkansas State Library and State Library Board

+ Transferring their responsibilities to the Department of Education and State Archives

+ Shifting key support functions to systems that are not currently equipped to manage library services

+ Terminating current State Library Board members and allowing the Governor to appoint new members

What's at risk?

Libraries are more than buildings! They’re community hubs, places of lifelong learning, and cornerstones of equal access to information. The proposed legislation threatens that foundation. While FPL may be better positioned than some to adapt to these changes, many smaller and rural libraries across Arkansas could be severely impacted. These potential cuts could reduce access to books, technology, and essential programs in communities that rely heavily on their local libraries.

Why this matters?

Arkansas libraries could lose critical support and resources that help us provide you valuable services such as self-checkout kiosks, mobile printing, summer reading programs, and online research tools.

This includes:

+ Federal and state funding from agencies like the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)

+ Free staff training opportunities

+ Access to interlibrary loan systems and essential digital resources like Gale and ProQuest

+ Participation in nationwide programs like the Collaborative Summer Library Program

+ Monthly data reporting, which informs library planning and national advocacy efforts

We need your help!

Your voice matters and your advocacy can help ensure that libraries continue to serve our communities for generations to come. We encourage everyone to contact state legislators and share your personal story about what libraries mean to you, their importance to communities and your concerns. Please contact your representatives ASAP. 

Not sure what to say to your state legislators?

Unite Against Book Bans has created a templated email that they will send to the correct representatives after you type in your district information. Fill out their form →

Greg Leding (District 30)
greg.leding@senate.ar.gov
479.422.8099

Nicole Clowney (District 86)
nicole.clowney@arkansashouse.org 
479.445.5337

David Whitaker (District 22)
david.whitaker@arkansashouse.org
479.236.8313 

Denise Garner (District 84)
denise.garner@arkansashouse.org
479.283.5050

Steve Unger (District 19)
steveungerforarkansas@gmail.com
479.352.4544

Live outside of these districts? Find your representatives here →

In addition, please copy Arkansas' Speaker of the House Brian S. Evans. His email is brian.evans@arkansashouse.org and his phone number is 501.941.4002.
 

Thank you for your urgent support of Arkansas libraries!