CALS Blogs

Comcast NBCUniversal has awarded a $55,000 grant to the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) Foundation to support the CALS Digital Literacy Guides Program, which helps residents strengthen their digital skills and access the resources they need to succeed in an increasingly connected world.

During a check presentation held at the newly renovated Main Library,

I know many of you are eagerly anticipating the grand reopening of the Main Library. For months, we had been preparing to reopen on September 20, following more than two years of renovations to revitalize our downtown library so it can better serve our community.

Unfortunately, on Friday of last week, an executive from CDI Contractors,

Content Controls allow users to configure what library content appears in Libby for themselves or for their family, based on the intended audience for each book,
audiobook, and magazine in the library collection. This feature is optional. When content controls are in effect, they apply to every library in the user’s Libby app.

Last April, we were excited to celebrate the grand reopening of the Sue Cowan Williams Library. The building had been closed for about six months for extensive renovations—its first major upgrade since opening in 1997.

As we look ahead to the reopening of the Main Library this fall,

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” — Aesop

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, and this year, we’re shining a bright spotlight on the incredible individuals who give their time, talent, and energy to the Central Arkansas Library System. Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 20–26),

Have you ever wanted to start or join a book club? CALS can help you get started! We have book club kits in a wide variety of genres. Let’s get started! Reach out to friends who enjoy reading and gauge their interest in joining a book club. Once you’ve got your group together,

Over the past several years, CALS and libraries across the nation have faced a growing wave of book challenges aimed at limiting access to diverse materials. This impact was felt in Arkansas with the passage of Act 372, signed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on March 31, 2023. This law imposes restrictions on library materials and creates criminal penalties for librarians.

September 22 through 29, book lovers buzzed around downtown Little Rock, meeting authors, hearing behind-the-scenes stories, and scooping up copies of books; during all this, there were many moments of connection, learning, and joy. Over 8 days, CALS hosted 35 free public programs (most of them at CALS locations); welcomed 5,600+ audience members and students;