A dramatic discussion around library materials has created confusion about the role of a valuable and vital state agency. The Idaho Commission for Libraries (ICfL) administers state, federal and other grants and provides advocacy and support for public libraries in the Gem State. They assist libraries to build the capacity to better serve their communities.
Local libraries and school libraries elect trustees who are responsible for approving their collections. If any resident wants to challenge a book in a public library, that issue is handled by local trustees and directors, not the ICfL.
The ICfL was caught in a whirlwind of misguided drama when the House of Representatives narrowly passed HB 666, which could have criminally punished librarians for distributing materials that some legislators deemed obscene to minors. Fortunately, the Senate never took it the bill.
“Additionally, lawmakers shot down four drafts of the Idaho Commission for Libraries budget last legislative session over accusations that librarians were distributing obscene materials to children,” writes Ruth Brown of Idaho Reports. “Ultimately, the legislature approved a fifth draft after legislators cut about $3.8 million from its budget.”
State Librarian Stephanie Bailey-White said that she’s heard lawmakers may introduce another version of HB 666 in the 2023 session. Concerned citizens need to help provide basic information to legislators on what the ICfL does and its crucial role in the state.
In addition to the fact that the commission makes no decisions about materials, libraries are so much more than just books. They are community centers, especially vital in rural areas with limited services. The commission aids in essentials from broadband and telehealth to trainings for library staff and boards. ICfL assists libraries in providing an amazing range of local programs. Public libraries offer nutrition assistance, passports, help with job applications, public forums, and after-school craft and game events. There are yoga lessons, loans of outdoor equipment, music and theater performances, displays by local artists, computer trainings, and a host of other services that are often cost-prohibitive for the average Idahoan.
Some small, rural libraries would cease to exist, others would need to drastically cut outreach, without the support provided through ICfL. The confusion and controversy about a handful materials should not obscure the deeply needed work this agency performs.
Learn more about ICfL at: https://libraries.idaho.gov
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