Arkansas Statewide Candidate Survey on Library Issues Results Released

Advocates for All Arkansas Libraries and The Arkansas Library Association, with assistance from EveryLibrary, recently conducted a series of surveys for candidates running for state office to gain their insights regarding current issues facing libraries.

Advocates for All Arkansas Libraries (AAAL) and The Arkansas Library Association (ArLA), with assistance from EveryLibrary, recently conducted a series of surveys for candidates running for state office in Arkansas to gauge their support for school and public libraries and gain their insights regarding current issues facing libraries.

Surveys were directed to registered candidates for the state legislature during the general election cycles.

The Candidate Questionnaire was created to inform the public about where their candidates stand on these library issues. The survey results show respondents’ overwhelming support for both school and public libraries. 

Selected and summarized responses from general election candidates include:

  • 100% of respondents Strongly Disagreed or Disagreed with using local ballot measures to take away funding from essential library services in public libraries.
  • 88% of respondents would support additional State Library funding during the next legislative session in an effort to prevent public library closures.
  • 96% of respondents support state appropriations to promote, aid, and equalize public library services in Arkansas.
  • 100% of respondents would support increased funding to the State Library to ensure that schools and universities across the state can maintain access to Traveler databases which provide statewide digital resources.
  • 92% Strongly Disagree or Disagree with the Arkansas State Library board withholding funds based on certain books in a public library.

EveryLibrary provided survey hosting capabilities, support for communications and outreach to candidates, and technical assistance in developing and reporting on questions. For additional details, view AAAL’s Press Release and the full survey responses here