This year, six Central Arkansas library systems are celebrating in a big way. The North Little Rock Public Library System (NLRPLS) is partnering with the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS), Saline County Library, Faulkner County Library, Pine Bluff Jefferson County Library System, and Garland County Library to launch The Power of the Card.

This regional campaign offers special deals and discounts for library cardholders at participating businesses throughout Central Arkansas. It is a win-win for businesses and customers alike. With thousands of cardholders between the six systems, participating businesses get a valuable opportunity to gain new customers, increase visibility, and show support for their local library.

It all started for NLRPLS in 2022 with Check Out North Little Rock, a campaign offering discounts at local businesses to library cardholders. In 2023 and 2024, the program expanded to include CALS under the name Bookworm Bargains. In 2025, the campaign continues to grow under the name The Power of the Card, a name originally developed by Saline County Library. Their campaign earned national recognition and won the John Cotton Dana Award, the most prestigious library PR award, in 2018.

Businesses in the North Little Rock Public Library System and Central Arkansas Library System service areas can sign up here. The deadline to sign up is August 8. Businesses outside the NLRPLS or CALS service areas should contact their local participating library system to learn how to get involved.

For questions about participating, contact Kevin Newsom at knewsom@nlrlibrary.org or LaReina Fuentes at lfuentes@cals.org.

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The North Little Rock Public Library System (NLRPLS) is pleased to announce its participation in the annual Arkansas PBS Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive. Inspired by Fred Rogers, who began this drive in 1997 to foster a spirit of neighborly kindness, this initiative provides a way for everyone to help those in need during the winter season.

From November 1 through November 30, we invite the public to donate new or gently-used cold-weather clothing to support The Van, a local organization dedicated to assisting unsheltered individuals in our community. NLRPLS joins Arkansas PBS and libraries across the state in this effort to collect sweaters and winter clothing items, which will be donated exclusively to The Van. Needed items include sweaters, coats, hoodies, flannels, hats, scarves, gloves, and other cold-weather essentials.

Donations can be made at the following locations:

• William F. Laman Public Library – 2801 Orange St.
• Argenta Public Library – 420 Main St.
• Rover (Mobile Library) – Various locations
• Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub – 204 E. 4th St.

In addition, NLRPLS is hosting a series of free charity knitting and crochet workshops for community members who wish to create handmade items to contribute to the drive:

• Argenta Hook Hounds: Crochet for a Cause – Wednesday, November 6, 1:00 – 5:00 PM at Argenta Library
• Knitting Loom: Hats for the Homeless – Monday, November 18 at 5:00 PM and Wednesday, November 20 at 10:00 AM at Laman Library

These free workshops are open to all skill levels, and materials will be provided for those who need them. As a special incentive, participants who knit the most hats for donation by December will be entered to win a Michael’s gift card.

Won’t you help a neighbor? This November, join NLRPLS, Arkansas PBS, and libraries across the state in spreading warmth and kindness through the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive. For more information, please contact the North Little Rock Public Library System at (501) 758-1720 or visit NLRlibrary.org.

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Get ready to embark on an exciting summer adventure with the North Little Rock Public Library System (NLRPLS). NLRPLS is delighted to announce the Summer Library Adventure Kick-Off Party, taking place at Argenta Plaza on Saturday, June 8, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This event is packed with family-friendly activities, performances, and opportunities to explore everything the area has to offer. The first 200 attendees to sign up for Summer Library Adventures at this event will receive a free summer tote and water bottle. 

Event Highlights: 

Enjoy a dynamic lineup of performers, including: 

• 10:30 AM – Museum of Discovery 
• 11:00 AM – Tumble Tots 
• 11:30 AM – Line Dancing 
• 12:00 PM – Birds of Prey with Central Arkansas Raptor Rescue 

Food Trucks: Savor tasty treats from The Prickly Pickle and Hi Honey Spud Truck. 

Interactive Booths:

Engage with local organizations such as the Innovation Hub, Little Rock Zoo, and AR Kids Read. Participate in the community Paint Splatter Mural and learn about local wildlife, environmental care, and more. 

“We are excited to kick off the summer with a celebration that brings our community together and highlights the adventures that can be found in our libraries and beyond,” said Susie Kirk, Communications Manager of the North Little Rock Public Library System. “Join us for a day of fun, exploration, and discovery.” 

Event Details: 

• Date: Saturday, June 8 
• Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM 
• Location: Argenta Plaza, 510 N Main St, North Little Rock 

Thanks to North Little Rock Tourism for making this event possible.

Registration for Summer Library Adventures at the North Little Rock Public Library System begins Monday, June 3. Visit your favorite NLRPLS locations or call 501-758-1720 to sign up and get a free tote bag and water bottle, while supplies last.

For more information about the Summer Library Adventure Kick-Off, please contact the Argenta Public Library at 501-687-1061 or visit NLRlibrary.org. 

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