Help Save Library Materials

Public Libraries need your help to protect materials from being restricted!

 The budget bill in Ohio has passed the Ohio House and Senate and is now being sent to Governor DeWine to be signed on June 30, 2025.  The new biannual budget calls for a reduction to the Public Library Fund (PLF). For fiscal year 2026, this is a $25 million reduction in the PLF across the state. But even more alarming is a provision on page 2325 of House Bill 96. This provision 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.

 Now before you have a reaction to this, please know that public libraries already have collection development policies in place to address issues that may come up about materials. Plus, libraries do not act “in loco parentis” in place of a parent or guardian. We believe that parents and guardians have the right to choose what materials their child may read or watch.

 Censorship is wrong no matter what your political view is. The First Amendment protects everyone’s right to express their opinions, even unpopular ones. Silencing others today sets the precedent for silencing you tomorrow. The first amendment protects your right to expression. Laws that infringe upon the free exercise of religion, restrict freedom of speech or the press, or prohibit the right to assemble peaceably and petition the government are unconstitutional.

 So, we are asking you to please write or call Governor DeWine today let him know the reasons why this provision is wrong.

1. The provision is very vague, overly broad, and unworkable for most public libraries. We already have policies in place to address issues with materials.
2. The provision could require libraries to spend money and resources to be compliant that we may not have. Our funding is already being cut.
3. Libraries do not act “in loco parentis” in place of a parent or guardian. Parents decide what is right for their child, not someone else’s child.
4. It opens the door to unconstitutional censorship and the core mission of public libraries which is to provide free and open access to all information and to all people.

 Act Now! Please call and email the Governor today and respectfully urge him to veto this provision related to library materials. Please be kind and respectful to Governor DeWine. He did not introduce this provision and he has been a big supporter of libraries.

Call:  614-466-3555

Email:  governor.ohio.gov/contact

 THANK YOU!!!