Prohibits the banning of books or other materials by libraries or library systems; provides that no library or library system shall receive state aid unless such entity adopts the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights that indicates materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval or develops a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or other materials.
Summary
Bill A04859 aims to amend the education law in New York to prohibit libraries and library systems from banning books or other materials. It stipulates that no library or library system shall receive state aid unless they adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights or develop a written statement that explicitly prohibits the practice of banning materials. Libraries are required to comply with this mandate within ninety days of the bill's effective date.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would significantly impact the operations of libraries across New York State by enforcing a standard that protects access to a wide range of materials. Libraries that do not comply with the new requirements would risk losing state funding, which could lead to a uniform policy against censorship in public libraries. This change would align New York's library practices with national standards for intellectual freedom as outlined by the American Library Association.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A04859 appears to be largely supportive among library advocates and free speech proponents, who view it as a necessary step to protect intellectual freedom and access to diverse materials. However, there may be concerns from some groups about the implications of mandated policies on local governance and the autonomy of library systems.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from those who believe that libraries should have the discretion to manage their collections based on community standards or values. Critics of the bill may argue that it imposes undue restrictions on local library boards and could lead to conflicts over what materials are deemed appropriate. Supporters of the bill, however, argue that it is essential to uphold the principles of free access to information and resist censorship.
Prohibits libraries and library systems, including school libraries and school library systems from banning books or other materials based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
Prohibits libraries and library systems, including school libraries and school library systems from banning books or other materials based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
Prohibits libraries and library systems, including school libraries and school library systems from banning books or other materials based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
Provides that publicly funded libraries may not ban books because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval; directs school districts to adopt the ALA library bill of rights.
Provides that publicly funded libraries may not ban books because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval; directs school districts to adopt the ALA library bill of rights.
Provides that publicly funded libraries may not ban books because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval; directs school districts to adopt the ALA library bill of rights.
Permits libraries and library systems to enter into cooperative purchasing agreements to purchase or license electronic literary materials; prevents contracts between publishers or aggregators and libraries or library systems from restricting the disclosure of certain information.
An Act Concerning The Curation And Retention Of Literary Materials Contained In Public And School Libraries And Legal Protections Afforded To Librarians And Staff Working In Such Libraries.