The new Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) rule changes that came from Gov. Kay Ivey in response to citizens’ concerns over sexually explicit and obscene children’s books are officially part of Alabama’s administrative code as of Monday.
The APLS board voted in May to approve Ivey’s proposed rules after a lengthy 90-day public comment period that garnered nearly 6,500 letters. Most of the letters, both in support and opposition, said that Ivey's recommendations were too vague.
Ivey became involved after Alabama residents began petitioning the APLS board to address the recent statewide controversy surrounding sexually explicit or inappropriate books in the children's section of public libraries.
In September 2023, Ivey sent a letter to APLS director Nancy Pack demanding answers about the sexually explicit books and APLS's connection with the American Library Association (ALA).
Ivey later responded by offering a series of policy recommendations, which were delayed during the public comment portion of the rules' deliberation.
The policies dictate the criteria libraries must meet to receive state funding, with most changes involving placement and selection policies to avoid directly placing sexually explicit books in the children's section.
The board accepted some amendments from APLS board member and Alabama GOP chairman John Wahl. It adopted the amended rules outright, except APLS board chair Ron Snider, who cited fear of possible litigation as a reason for not supporting Wahl’s amendments.
Amy Minton, the newest APLS board member after Ivey removed then-board member Virginia Doyle, praised the new rules and thanked Ivey for her appointment.
Wahl's amendments place several requirements on libraries contingent on their continued funding.
Create policies governing the selection criteria for minors and how they are safeguarded from sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth.
Approve written guidelines that ensure library sections designated for minors under the age of 18 remain free of material containing obscenity, sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate materials regarding history, religion, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this rule.
Approve written selection criteria for minors that prevent the purchase or otherwise acquiring of any material advertised for consumers under the age of 18 that contains obscenity, sexually explicit, or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth. Age-appropriate materials regarding history, religion, biology, or human anatomy should not be construed to be against this rule.
Approve written guidelines that establish library cards for minors under the age of 18 must require parental approval before a minor's card is permitted to check out materials.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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