The bill proposes the abolition of the Arkansas State Library and the State Library Board, transferring their powers, duties, and resources to the Department of Education and the Arkansas State Archives. It specifies that the authority, functions, records, contracts, personnel, and unexpended balances of appropriations from both entities will be transferred to the Department of Education. The bill ensures that existing orders, rules, or standards established prior to its enactment will remain in effect until amended or repealed by the Department of Education. Additionally, it includes amendments to existing Arkansas Code, removing references to the Arkansas State Library and repealing provisions related to its establishment and governance.

The legislation introduces new provisions for the Department of Education to oversee library services, including the management of federal and state documents and the establishment of county and regional library systems. It mandates the Department to assist in the development of public libraries, implement a certification plan for librarians, and prepare a written state plan for library services. The bill also outlines specific criteria for public libraries to qualify for state aid, including policy enforcement regarding age-appropriate materials and qualifications for library directors. Overall, the bill aims to streamline library governance in Arkansas, enhance public library services, and ensure effective management of library resources.

Statutes affected:
SB 536: 6-47-302(d), 13-2-103(c), 13-2-201, 13-2-203, 13-2-209, 25-43-105, 13-2-204, 13-2-205, 13-2-206, 13-2-207, 13-2-208, 13-2-210, 13-2-211, 13-2-212, 13-2-214, 13-2-213, 25-18-301, 25-18-304, 25-18-306, 25-18-308, 13-2-509, 13-2-601, 13-2-605, 13-2-903(d), 13-2-1002(a), 13-3-104(a), 13-13-102(c), 19-4-906, 19-5-305(a), 21-7-402(b), 25-11-203, 25-15-204(e), 25-16-903(21), 25-18-306(b), 25-18-307, 25-43-502(a)