Little Rock – The Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) Board of Directors announced that Jay Barth will become the system’s next executive director, succeeding Nate Coulter on Dec. 1. Barth, a respected professor of politics and former chief education officer for the City of Little Rock, brings more than two decades of experience in education, public service, and library leadership.
Broad experience in education and public service
Barth spent 26 years teaching politics at Hendrix College and has held faculty positions at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Bowen School of Law, New York University’s Tulsa campus, and the Clinton School of Public Service. He also served as director of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, giving him firsthand knowledge of how libraries serve as community hubs.
From 2012 to 2019, Barth served on the Arkansas State Board of Education, including two years as chair, and currently sits on the Central Arkansas Water Board of Commissioners. His background in both education policy and municipal governance positions him well to guide CALS through its next phase of growth.
Why the library system matters to families and faith communities
Barth said the chance to serve the public outside of elected office appealed to him. “It’s one of the few institutions that really works across the community in a couple of ways,” he explained, noting that libraries bring together people of different backgrounds for learning, fellowship, and civic engagement.
For families, churches, and local businesses, CALS provides essential resources: free internet access, digital collections, and programs that support literacy, entrepreneurship, and youth education. The system’s recent initiatives—such as the CALS Cruiser bookmobile, the Rock It! Lab entrepreneurial hub, and the Count Up math tutoring program—demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the community’s educational foundation.
Building on recent improvements
Under former director Nate Coulter, CALS completed a $31 million renovation of the Main Library in Little Rock, upgraded its 15 branch locations, and opened a new building for the Amy Sanders Library in Sherwood. Those projects, along with the modernized Sue Cowan Williams Library, have expanded space for study, events, and technology access.
Barth was chosen from three finalists after a national search. The other candidates were Meredith Goins, executive director of the World Data System International Program Office at the University of Tennessee, and Dionne Jackson, vice president for inclusive engagement and Title IX coordinator at DePauw University in Indiana.
Looking ahead
As Barth prepares to assume his new role, CALS is poised to continue expanding services that support parents, students, and faith‑based groups seeking reliable information and safe learning environments. His leadership is expected to further integrate the library system into the fabric of everyday life across Central Arkansas.
Barth’s appointment underscores the importance of strong, community‑focused leadership in public institutions—a principle that aligns with the values of families, faith, and individual liberty that define our region.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
