BOISE, Idaho – A bill requiring Idaho libraries to restrict LGBTQ+-themed content has changed policies at institutions across the state.
Despite opposition from the Idaho Library Association, the law went into effect on July 1 and allows any parent, guardian or child to sue a library for damages if it is found to have circulated “obscene” or “homosexual” media.
The Coeur d’Alene Public Library website now has a “Material Review and Relocation Form” that patrons can use to file complaints about material with homosexual or sexual content. It references the new book ban and asks complainants to review the legal language before submitting their concerns.
“Please explain why this material meets the definition of Idaho Code § 18-1514 and/or Idaho Code § 18-1517B(2) and should be relocated – see the back of this form for details,” the form states.
The Donnelly Public Library took a slightly different approach and now provides parents with a form before their children can borrow books with three choices.
“I will be present with my child at all times at the Donnelly Public Library.” “My child has my permission to attend programs at the Donnelly Public Library without me as a parent, but is not permitted to check out library materials, including books, movies, tablets, etc….” “As the parent or guardian of ____________, I acknowledge that the Donnelly Public Library contains ‘adult material.’ I hereby waive my rights to the provisions afforded to me by HB710 and grant my child the right to check out materials without my presence.”
Without the accompaniment of a parent in the initial period to examine the new legal form and make a decision, minors are not allowed to use the library at all for legal reasons, it said.
The Boise Public Library’s new policy statement on these rules signals librarians’ general opposition to book censorship.
“The Boise Public Library is keenly aware of the right to free speech guaranteed to the people of the United States of America by the First Amendment to the Constitution, including the right of access to information,” the policy states.
Complaints about “obscene” materials containing references to sexuality or the LGBTQ+ community will be decided by the Boise Library Board under the new rules.
The new policies reflect a growing focus on the legal exclusion of LGBTQ+ people from public life across the Gem State.
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