A provision of House Bill 96 (ORC Section 3375.47) will require public libraries to segregate materials related to sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, guaranteeing they are not visible to persons under the age of 18. This language is dangerously vague, overly broad, and ultimately unworkable. It opens the door to unconstitutional censorship and undermines the core mission of libraries—to provide free and open access to information.
BPL has long-established collection development policies that ensure materials reflect the needs of our community. These policies include processes for public input, parental controls, and age-appropriate library card options.
Libraries can’t take the place of parents. We support families by providing access and options, but ultimately, only parents and guardians can decide what’s best for their children to read.
Carrying out this mandate comes with an extraordinary cost for Ohio libraries. “This provision would force local libraries to spend millions of dollars and years of staff time complying with an unfunded, unconstitutional mandate, and it might even result in adult-only library branches or closed libraries.” said Ohio Library Council Executive Director, Michelle Francis.
Protect your freedom to read and the right of every family to choose. Call 614-466-3555 or Email Gov. DeWine today and no later than June 30th. Ask him to veto this harmful provision. And, encourage your family and friends to do the same. Thank you for your continued support!
