Bills would harm Iowa’s public libraries

Public libraries have long stood as pillars of education, access to information, and community enrichment. In Iowa, our libraries not only provide resources for lifelong learning but also serve as inclusive spaces where individuals from all walks of life can gather, explore, and grow. However, recent legislative proposals — specifically HF521 and SF235 — pose significant threats to the ability of public libraries to continue fulfilling these vital roles.

The Essential Role of Public Libraries

Public libraries are more than just buildings full of books; they are vibrant community hubs. They offer free access to a wealth of information, support digital literacy, and provide programs that cater to diverse interests and age groups. From early childhood storytimes that foster a love for reading to workshops that enhance job-seeking skills, libraries adapt to the evolving needs of their communities. In rural areas and underserved populations, libraries often serve as the primary, if not sole, access point to critical information and services.

Potential Impact of HF521 and SF235

House File 521 and Senate File 235 aim to modify existing obscenity exemptions for public libraries and educational institutions. While the intent behind these bills may be to protect community standards, the broad language used could lead to unintended consequences. By altering obscenity exemptions, these bills could subject libraries and educational institutions to increased legal scrutiny and potential penalties for materials deemed inappropriate by subjective standards. This shift could result in self-censorship among librarians and educators, limiting the diversity of materials available and hindering the open exchange of ideas that is fundamental to educational growth.

Consequences for Community Access and Education

If enacted, HF521 and SF235 could force libraries to remove or restrict access to a wide array of materials, including classic literature, educational content, and resources that reflect the experiences of marginalized communities. Such actions would not only diminish the richness of our library collections but also impede the ability of individuals to seek information that broadens their perspectives and fosters critical thinking. Moreover, these restrictions could disproportionately affect those who rely on public libraries for access to uncensored information, including students, researchers, and individuals without internet access at home.

Advocating for Our Libraries

It is imperative that we recognize and preserve the autonomy of public libraries to curate collections that reflect the diverse interests and needs of our communities. Rather than imposing restrictive measures, we should trust the expertise of librarians and educators to make informed decisions about the materials they provide. By doing so, we uphold the principles of intellectual freedom and ensure that libraries remain spaces where curiosity is encouraged, knowledge is accessible, and community bonds are strengthened.

Sandy Lawrence is president of Solon Public Library Board of Trustees; Bob King is President of Solon Public Library Foundation and Susan Scott is president of The Friends of Solon Public Library.