Truthout
libraries
Idaho Law Criminalizes Librarians Who Allow LGBTQ Books to Stay on Their Shelves
An informal survey suggests that more than half of the librarians in Idaho are considering leaving their jobs.
Public Libraries Are Essential Resources — and They’re More Threatened Than Ever
Our libraries are already combating inequality, we need to make sure they have the funds to keep doing it.
Alabama House Passes Bill That Could Be Used to Criminalize Librarians
Critics argue the legislation violates the First Amendment.
Maryland Governor Signs “Freedom to Read Act” Into Law
“Maryland takes a bold step forward in safeguarding the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ youth and educators.”
Attempted Book Bans Last Year Targeted More Than 4,240 Titles, an All-Time High
There is “absolute evidence” of an effort “to remove particular books,” an American Library Association official said.
E-Books Can Subvert Book Bans, But Corporate Profit-Seeking Stands in the Way
Exorbitant costs and restrictive licenses are obstructing libraries’ efforts to resist book bans via access to e-books.
Colorado Democrats Propose Bill to Limit Book Bans
The bill blocks challenges to books based on discriminatory or political reasons.
Idaho GOP Pushes Bill That Could Ban Library Books With Same-Sex Handholding
The homophobic content ban would allow right-wing parents to sue libraries over any content they deem “obscene.”
FL AG’s Legal Brief Claims Libraries Should Only Convey “Government’s Message”
“Florida’s public-school libraries are a forum for government, not private, speech,” Florida AG Ashley Moody claimed.
WI Bills Would Require Libraries to Tell Parents What Books Their Kids Check Out
Librarians say the GOP bills would restrict children’s ability to research topics in a safe environment.