In Georgia, A Bill To Cut All Ties With The American Library Association Is Advancing

In Georgia, a bill to sever all connections with the American Library Association (ALA) is advancing through the state legislature. This move comes amid concerns from some conservatives over the ALA’s perceived politicization, particularly regarding its influence on public and school library collections. The bill, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Larry Walker, was motivated by a grant from the ALA to a local library to diversify its collection with LGBTQ and BIPOC-themed books, which Walker views as a form of political indoctrination. The Georgia bill, which passed the state Senate with a 33-to-20 vote, represents the most extensive effort to disconnect from the ALA, requiring all public and school libraries in the state to cut ties. This initiative reflects a broader trend, with around eight other states and some local libraries also moving away from the ALA. Critics of the ALA, including the conservative Christian group Frontline Policy Action, cite the organization’s leadership and publications as evidence of its political bias. The ALA, however, denies these claims, emphasizing its role in supporting libraries and librarians regardless of individual leaders’ personal beliefs. The Georgia bill’s proponents argue it’s necessary to protect children from inappropriate content. At the same time, opponents see it as a dangerous form of government censorship that could significantly harm libraries’ ability to provide resources and professional development.

Source: NPR