Library receives grant for AED at local facility

New members welcomed; board discusses passports, VITA programs

The Forrest City Public Library Board said goodbye to two members and welcomed their replacements during the group’s meeting Monday afternoon.

Board chair Lindsay Hodges presented plaques of appreciation to former members Judy Sweet and Briuana Green. They have been replaced by Karen Hodges and Evelyn Smith, who were sworn in during the meeting by FC Mayor Larry Bryant.

Library director Arlisa Harris told board members the facility has received a $2,000 grant from the Blue and You Foundation to place an AED (automated external defibrillator) at the library.

Harris explained the grant will cover the cost of the device, a wall-mounted storage unit and pediatric pads. “We’ve already had some training, but we will have a refresher course when this comes in,” she said.

The board also discussed Senate Bill 81, which is being considered during this year’s legislative session. The bill would amend state law regarding libraries and obscene materials made available to minors, along with creating a penalty for furnishing a harmful item to a minor.

“Basically, this would allow people to challenge why a particular book or movie is in the library,” said Harris, adding that the library already has a policy allowing patrons to challenge material. “I’ve been here 23 years and no one has ever challenged a book, but this is a new day.”

Previously, if a challenge had been made, Harris would review the challenge and discuss it with the board to make a final determination as to whether or not the item could remain in the library. This proposed law would require the library to form a committee to determine if an item is suitable. If the challenge is not upheld by the committee, the person challenging the item could then present it to city government for a decision.

“Our current policy does not cover all of the different steps this bill wants us to do. We will have to change our policy,” said Harris. “We may need to call a special meeting if this becomes law.”

Bryant, who stayed for the board’s meeting, said of the law, “It puts pressure on people and unnecessary stress. I don’t know where these people come up with these ideas, but we have to live with what we have.”

Harris also offered updates on the library’s passport and VITA (volunteer income tax assistance) services.

Earlier this year, the library began helping people apply for passports.

“We are another place where people can go when they want to get a passport. Three of us are certified to do them,” said Harris. “We do ask people to make appointments.”

So far, the library has processed six passport applications.

Currently, those seeking passports have their photographs taken at Walgreen’s before coming to the library to complete the application process.

Harris said the facility is hoping to eventually offer the photography service, but added that none of the applicants so far had complained about having to stop somewhere else to get their picture taken.

The VITA program is again showing success this year.

Harris told the board the library staff and volunteers have “transmitted” 169 federal and state tax returns for free.

“We’ve heard some horror stories where people were having to pay $200 to $300 to get their taxes done,” said Harris of the library’s free program.

Last year, the library processed 258 tax returns for local residents.

Before adjourning, the board discussed setting up training for the new board members.

Harris said she would contact state officials to get some dates for when the training might be available and share those dates with the board.