#Petition: More book banning - No Jailing Librarians

Book banning efforts are sweeping the nation. But in Illinois, elected officials are taking things to the next level. Lawmakers have given the first sign-off on a bill that would allow public libraries and K-12 schools to be prosecuted over books considered ‘harmful’ to minors. But the definition of harmful isn’t spelled out, leaving it to those in power to discriminate against any book they disagree with. Beth doesn’t want to see her local librarians jailed for allowing a child to check out a book. Join her fight to stop this bill from passing. No Jailing Librarians 1,157 have signed Beth Stroh’s petition. Let’s get to 1,500!

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Indiana lawmakers have advanced a bill that would allow schools and public librarians to be criminally prosecuted for books considered to be “harmful” to children, including items that contain obscenity, violence or pornography (although there has been no written definition of what will be considered "harmful"). Senate Bill 17 passed the Senate education committee on a 9-4 vote, with Republicans on the committee supporting the proposal and Democrats voting against it. Currently, schools and public libraries can defend themselves against charges if they argue the material has an educational purpose. That defense would be removed under Senate Bill 17. Advocates say the bill helps protect kids. We say it threatens our country’s most basic personal freedoms, limits the effectiveness of our schools and libraries, and allows those in power to discriminate against any book that discusses or promotes anything they find personally offensive, regardless of its truthfulness. Sign to voice your concern and STOP SB 17. We proudly support our public library, its professionals, and the access they provide to wonderfully diverse, relevant, important, and entertaining books for all residents of our county.

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