While in various parts of the country initiatives to limit access to books in public libraries are multiplying, New Mexico is seeking to adopt an opposite strategy. Local attempts at censorship have in fact prompted legislators to propose a law that would protect librarians from ideological and political pressures.
Last month, in a public facility in Albuquerque, a small group of people gathered to discuss the increase in book bans. Garren Hochstetler, an industry professional who organized the meeting, expressed concern over the growing number of books being removed from shelves in other states, like Texas. He emphasized the desire to maintain an environment where reading remains free and freedom of expression is guaranteed.
Hochstetler stated that he found the massive participation in the recent school board meeting encouraging, which was organized to address the censorship of books with LGBTQ+ themes. Now, he is seeking support for a bill introduced by Representative Kathleen Cates, the Librarian Protection Act. The Democrat reiterated the importance of allowing workers in the field to do their jobs without external interference or ideological debates.
The American Library Association reported numerous complaints against certain themes, with over a thousand cases in the first eight months of last year. The policy has highlighted how librarians in smaller communities fear they do not have the necessary support to oppose removal requests.
The proposed bill provides for the revocation of state funding to libraries that remove books based on political, religious, or ideological reasons related to the race, nationality, gender identity, or sexual orientation of the author. Furthermore, decisions regarding the removal of a book will not be made by a single employee, but will involve the institution’s governing boards, ensuring a more equitable and shared process.
Republican Representative Stefani Lord, who opposed the bill, believes librarians should have the ability to independently remove texts considered inappropriate. She expressed concern about the presence of materials she considers excessively explicit and stressed the need for a mechanism that allows the immediate removal of volumes deemed too graphic.
Alex Garlick, a political science professor at the University of Vermont, noted that since 2020 there has been an increase in requests for “parental rights” in schools and local libraries. However, he pointed out that New Mexico’s action could become a model for other states interested in protecting the freedom to read.
Meanwhile, as the proposal is being discussed in the state capital of Santa Fe, Hochstetler and his group Freedom to Read New Mexico, are working to expand the awareness movement. The bill will soon be examined by the House Education Committee.
