CALS Blogs

My name is Sylvia Blain – I am 53 years old and live in Central Arkansas with my long-time partner, Shannon Sanders, and our pup, Tucker. I am the mother of two grown sons living in the Bay Area. I am the executive director at Potluck Food Rescue, a role that brings me a lot of satisfaction and growth.

Recently I dropped in on an event where CALS Library staff handed out new backpacks and school supplies to young students who were anticipating their new school year. Back to school is really where the Library shines; in the classrooms, sharp pencils and fresh notebooks meet to record nuggets of knowledge. And here in our branches,

Twenty-five masked and eager faces waited in the library and learning center of Daisy Bates Elementary School on Wednesday, July 27, as CALS employee, Courtney Jones, explained which backpacks were for which grades. This group of students comes from the 385 students who attend Bates Elementary and are part of the Little Scholars after-school program.

Construct a short narrative that illustrates true, supportive friendship, where one character is daring to achieve something despite a very large obstacle. The story should feature or mention at least three characters. Please do not indicate or specify how the story illustrates friendship, it should be evident. This should be one episode of what could possibly be a larger story. Entries will be judged on flow, originality, and strength of character/character voice. Humor is appreciated.

Guess what’s back? The CRAZY FREE BOOKS promotion!

This year, for Banned Books Week we’re giving away 50 copies of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Starting October 2, if you’d like a copy, please send a message to SixBridgesBookFest@cals.org with Crazy Free Books in the subject.

If you’ve had a CALS card for any length of time, you probably know that we offer audio and digital books through the Libby app. But even the most experienced CALSian might not know about Hoopla. Hoopla is an app that offers a variety of digital media; at CALS, we use it to offer TV shows,

Tell us about yourself 
Hello, My name is Arianna Dobson and I am 16 years old. I am the youngest sibling out of my sister and brother. I attend Estem High School. I love photography, reading, cooking, drawing, and film. I also love reading books that have been turned into movies.

We’re heading back to school! Check out the list of programs and activities for students and the updated meal schedule. While you’re browsing, view the latest author talks, art exhibitions, film schedule and more. View Tim Jacob’s work View August Programs