Ask a Librarian

Time for your semi-regular reminder about the reference services available at the Arkansas State Library.  While our primary mission is to serve state agencies and state employees, we are ready and willing to answer questions from the general public, public librarians, school teachers, college students, high school students, and everyone in between. If we can't find the answer in our databases and collections, we will do our best to find someone who does have the answer.  You can contact us by phone during office hours at (501) 682-2053, or any time by using our handy Ask a Librarian form, or by writing us at:

Arkansas State Library, Attn. Reference
900 West Capitol, Suite 100
Little Rock, AR 72201

Please include a reliable way to reach you; if you have email but only check it once a month, make sure we also have a phone number and/or mailing address.

If you prefer, you can also come to the library and speak to us in person.  Our hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM. 

We generally answer questions within 24 hours, except during weekends and holidays.

Tax Time Again

Now that we are well into 2012, it is time to start thinking about doing your taxes. I know, I know, there are far more interesting things to think about, but they do have to be done by April 15th, and getting them over with early is always a good idea. Here are some resources to help you get started:

• Arkansas State income tax forms: Although individuals cannot yet e-file income taxes, you can access all the forms you will need from this page. You can fill the pages out then print them to send in with your W-2s and any other required forms. The library also has a limited number of the basic forms, and a CD-Rom with all the forms that we can use to print a form for you on request.
• IRS.gov: The IRS really, really, really wants you to file your taxes electronically these days. And they make it pretty easy too. From their website, you can find information about how to e-file, as well as links to various e-filing software. If you make less than $57,000, you can probably file for free, using the links provided. If you file electronically, most programs simply walk you through, step-by-step, asking you all sorts of questions to make sure you are getting the best tax rate.
• Still want to file by paper? Those forms and instructions are all available for free on the forms section of the IRS website as well. 
• Want help filing your taxes, or just need someone to answer questions but can't afford a CPA? The Central Arkansas Library System will be hosting volunteers from Volunteers in Tax Assistance (VITA) at several of its branches through April 7th. Appointments are available on a first come, first served basis for qualifying patrons with an income below $40,000. For more information visit the CALS website.

We cannot provide tax preparation or legal advice here at the Arkansas State Library, but we do have a number of books and other resources that may be of use in preparing your taxes. For more information, send us a reference request using our Ask a Librarian form.