CET Writes

  Originally published October 25, 2024 Library Developments Blog (modified) |  Library Development and Networking Division Texas State Library and Archives Commission Waiting outside Gate 21 where the scent of pizza from the nearby Eastside Pies booth filled the air, I excitedly chatted about the transitional weather with my new teammate – to quote James Hurst “summer was dead but autumn had not yet been born” – the logistics of traveling for work, and our preparedness to attend the 2024 Association for Small and Rural Libraries (ARSL) conference . Neither of us truly knew what to expect, but we had been told that ARSL is THE conference for rural and small libraries, with conference organizers who not only understand the constraints of these libraries but also the unique opportunities for their being chrysalises of change. The conference theme “Libraries are (r)Evolutionary” proclaimed the event aimed to provide an opportunity for exploring the transformative power of rural and small

  Originally published October 7, 2024 Library Developments Blog  |  Library Development and Networking Division Texas State Library and Archives Commission The end of September heralded the final bow for my visits to small public libraries in Central Texas, tours of their spaces, and chats about how the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) can best support library leadership. For this last round, Library Digital Opportunity Program Coordinator Henry Stokes accompanied me to Schulenburg Public Library, Fayette Public Library, and Smithville Public Library. Schulenburg Public Library Surrounded by many open fields within Fayette County where you can easily spot cattle and wildflowers, the city of Schulenburg is the perfect stopping point during that Jumpin’ Jive from Houston to San Antonio on I-10 or whenever you travel State Highway 77. The city is not only known for its German culture, homemade kolaches, fresh pecans, and Shorthorns but is also home to a Blinn College c