Tensions continue over where controversial books belong in public libraries.
In July, a federal appeals court ruled that Arkansas Act 372 could be enforced. This 2023 state law tells libraries to create a restricted section for books deemed “harmful to children.”
Librarians say the law is vague and impossible to enforce.
At its quarterly meeting Friday, the State Library board tried to clarify the law. They discussed draft rules barring state funds from libraries that do not comply with Act 372.
The resolution would clarify that restricted books contain “descriptions of sexual acts, sexual contact, or human genitalia.” These books would still be available with parental consent.
At the meeting, librarians said the rules are still too broad. Many art history books or science books contain nudity.
A second part of the rule says books discussing puberty can be checked out with parental permission by an 11-year-old or older.
Librarians said many girls hit puberty earlier, and books like Judy Blume's coming-of-age novel, Are You There God, It's Me, Margaret?, could face censorship.
The state board was receptive to the librarians' concerns but said that, as a board, it could only follow laws passed by the legislature.
