US EditionOhio Patrons Brace for Impact as State Budget Cuts $25M for Public Library Funding
- On June 25, Ohio lawmakers passed House Bill 96, which mandates that public libraries restrict access to books and resources concerning sexual orientation or gender identity from minors by placing them separately.
- This provision was added after State Representative Gary Click raised concerns about adult materials in children’s sections, prompting inclusion in the two-year budget.
- Library systems across Ohio oppose this provision, citing its vague language, potential censorship, significant cost, and reduction of the Public Library Fund by $25 million.
- Michelle Francis of the Ohio Library Council criticized the mandate as unclear, too expansive, and impractical, warning that it could cost local libraries millions of dollars and require up to six years of staff time to meet compliance demands.
- Libraries are urging Governor DeWine to veto the provision, arguing it undermines intellectual freedom and could deprive families of vital access to resources and programming.
12 Articles
12 Articles
What happened with those bills? Here’s an update
The 83rd Session of the Nevada Legislature wrapped up in June. The RN&R covered a large handful of proposed legislation; here’s a look at how those bills fared. Assembly Bill 416 would have prohibited school and public library boards, employees and volunteers from limiting access to library materials—meaning a member of the public would have to go to court to get a book removed. It would have also criminalized harassment, threats or coercion to…
Ohio libraries in last-minute campaign to pressure Gov. DeWine to veto book segregation
Ohio's public libraries are in an urgent push to put pressure on Governor Mike DeWine to veto a provision in the Ohio budget.Buried in HB 96 (ORC Section 3375.47), which would require public libraries to segregate materials related to sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, guaranteeing they are not visible to anyone under 18.The Ohio Library Council argues the language "is dangerously vague, overly broad, and ultimately unworkable.…
Letter: Ask for veto of HB 96 library provision
Dear Library Supporters, Ohio public libraries are asking for your help again! Within the State Budget (HB 96) is a provision that would have a great impact on our services. This provision would require libraries to segregate materials related to gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation to guarantee they are not visible to anyone under 18 - ultimately undermining the right of parents and guardians to determine what their children acce…
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