By Bob Katzen
This bill would prevent book removal from school or public libraries due to personal or political views of individuals or groups. Other provisions would empower school librarians and teachers to determine access to age-appropriate materials in school libraries; require public libraries to adopt the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights; and protect librarians from retaliation.
Supporters of the proposal say that while no books in 2022 were technically banned in the Bay State, there were 45 attempts to censor books and other library resources, the fourth highest number of any state. They note that most attempts are to censor materials or library programming about race, sexuality and gender identity.
“Massachusetts is home to the nation’s first public library and first public school because we have long appreciated that unabridged access to knowledge is key to opportunity and fulfillment,” says Senate sponsor Sen. Julian Cyr (D-Truro). “At this sad moment when hate and fear are driving too many cruel policies across the nation, and yes closer to home, Massachusetts must continue to champion values of equity and belonging. Indeed, books are among our most compelling windows into the myriad of human experiences and capture the breadth of knowledge. We cannot allow small-minded bans or politically opportunist censorship interfere with the right to read.”
“As a member of the LGBTQ+ community representing a highly diverse district, I understand how important it is to prevent unnecessary censorship of books and other library resources,” said House sponsor Rep. John Moran (D-South End). “This bill would help ensure access to age-appropriate materials for communities across the state.”