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 clarifies that the abolishment of these entities will not affect any existing orders, rules, or standards established prior to the enactment of this bill. Additionally, it includes amendments to existing Arkansas Code sections to remove references to the Arkansas State Library, effectively consolidating library services under the Department of Education's jurisdiction.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions aimed at enhancing public library operations, including the establishment of county and regional library systems, a certification plan for public librarians, and educational programs to improve library services. It outlines specific criteria for public libraries to qualify for state aid, including requirements for governing body meetings and policy enforcement regarding age-appropriate materials. The bill also establishes an incentive program for public libraries and mandates the Arkansas State Archives to maintain a State and Local Government Publications Clearinghouse Program. An emergency clause is included, stating that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025, to ensure a smooth transition and continued funding for library services during the transfer process.

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)