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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Report warns of Project 2025 effect on AR libraries

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Thursday, August 29, 2024   

Changes could be coming for libraries and the people who work there if Project 2025 goes into effect. The 900 page document outlines how agencies could be reshaped if Republicans win the presidential election, and states there should be more accountability when it comes to what's available in public libraries. Arkansas has 58 public library systems.
Peter Bromberg, associate director with the Every Library Institute, said the changes would restrict what's available.

"Librarians and teachers are highly trusted, and well known and well loved in their communities. It's really kind of a shocking and extreme attempt to twist our democratic society and our institutions into more of a totalitarian theocracy," he said.

Backers of Project 2025 say librarians need to be held accountable for what is on their shelves. A bill in Alabama that would have criminalized librarians for allowing content defined as "obscene" narrowly missed becoming law this year. A similar measure has already been filed for next session.

Bromberg explained that Project 2025 promotes book bans, restricts LGBTQ+ content and undermines the intellectual freedom and inclusivity that libraries are known for. He believes that would ultimately threaten a student's educational quality and could end the practice of libraries being open and inclusive spaces for people who want to learn.

"That's the bad news. The good news is, Americans are increasingly becoming aware of what's happening and organizing. And it doesn't often take very much in terms of organizing and pushback - on whether it's school boards or county councils - to get the books back on the shelves," Bromberg continued.

Project 2025 is a Heritage Fund initiative that goes well beyond libraries. It would reshape the federal government and consolidate executive power under the president.


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Environment

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Groups that fight to protect public lands are criticizing the Trump administration's new review of all oil, gas and mining on public lands. National …


Environment

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This weekend, Virginians will participate with other birders around the world in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Thousands of birding enthusiasts …

Environment

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This weekend, birders across the world, including in Maryland, will participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Thousands of birding enthusiasts …


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Social Issues

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A New York City music school's faculty is back in the classroom after a weeklong strike. The Manhattan School of Music's Precollege Program faculty …

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Health and Wellness

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