Illinois is one step closer to protecting books from being banned in public libraries. The legislation comes as a countermove to bans on books with topics such as race, gender and sexuality in schools and libraries.
State lawmakers, along party lines, passed a bill during the week of April 30 that would take away state funding from public libraries if they ban books with controversial topics or viewpoints.
The legislation would only allow libraries to receive funding if they adopt an anti-book banning policy.
According to the American Library Association, attempted book bans and restrictions at school and public libraries hit a record high in 2022. Last year, there were 67 attempts to ban books in Illinois.
Proponents of the bill say the landmark legislation sets a nationwide precedent in promoting the sharing of library sources, and teaches children to think for themselves.
“This is an incredibly important step for our democracy, a win for First Amendment rights, and for the freedom to learn. In Illinois, book banning will not be allowed. We want our children to have access to everything. That’s what education is all about,” Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said.
Republican state lawmakers say the bill is an effort by Democrats to force their extreme ideology on others, and called the legislation a publicity stunt and overreach by politicians.
But with a Democratic majority, the legislation passed both chambers and now heads to the desk of the governor who says he looks forward to signing it.
The bill, when signed into law, will be the first of its kind in the nation.
