Libraries that are “dues-paying members” of certain nationwide nonprofit organizations would be cut off from one avenue of state funding under legislation being considered by Iowa state lawmakers.
The Senate State Government Subcommittee advanced Senate File 238, which would halt state funding to public libraries from the Enrich Iowa program if they are members of nationwide nonprofit organizations that promote federal and state legislation related to libraries and engage in advocacy efforts at the federal and state levels.
Enrich Iowa, run through the State Library of Iowa, appropriates money to libraries for open access, interlibrary loan reimbursement and direct state aid.
Though it is not specifically mentioned in the bill, lawmakers and committee attendees highlighted the American Library Association as the bill’s main target. The American Library Association is the largest library membership organization.
Supporters of the legislation argue the ALA is politically motivated, and they disagree with content in specific library books.
Sen. Sandy Salmon, R-Janesville
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Sandy Salmon, R-Janesville, said she appreciates library services, but believes the ALA does not protect children from sexually explicit materials.
“The ALA does not represent Iowa values of parental rights, protection of the natural modesty and innocent childhood, protection of children's sexuality and sexual identity and protection of children from being groomed for sexual abuse and exploitation,” Salmon said.
Sen. Cindy Winkler, D-Davenport, said state funding should not be tied to organization membership, adding that ALA funding allows libraries to have access to more materials and resources.
“When we start micromanaging and taking away the leadership that is provided by our local boards in our communities, we silence the voices of the members,” Winkler said. "To associate state funding with belonging to a professional organization makes no sense at all.”
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The Senate State Government Subcommittee advanced Senate File 238, which would halt state funding to public libraries from the Enrich Iowa program if they are members of nationwide nonprofit organizations that promote federal and state legislation related to libraries and engage in advocacy efforts at the federal and state levels.
Enrich Iowa, run through the State Library of Iowa, appropriates money to libraries for open access, interlibrary loan reimbursement and direct state aid.
Though it is not specifically mentioned in the bill, lawmakers and committee attendees highlighted the American Library Association as the bill’s main target. The American Library Association is the largest library membership organization.
Supporters of the legislation argue the ALA is politically motivated, and they disagree with content in specific library books.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Sandy Salmon, R-Janesville, said she appreciates library services, but believes the ALA does not protect children from sexually explicit materials.
“The ALA does not represent Iowa values of parental rights, protection of the natural modesty and innocent childhood, protection of children's sexuality and sexual identity and protection of children from being groomed for sexual abuse and exploitation,” Salmon said.
Sen. Cindy Winkler, D-Davenport, said state funding should not be tied to organization membership, adding that ALA funding allows libraries to have access to more materials and resources.
“When we start micromanaging and taking away the leadership that is provided by our local boards in our communities, we silence the voices of the members,” Winkler said. "To associate state funding with belonging to a professional organization makes no sense at all.”
Bill would restrict state funds to libraries that are American Library Association members
Libraries that are “dues-paying members” of certain nationwide nonprofit organizations would be cut off from one avenue of state funding under legislation being considered by Iowa state lawmakers.
www.thegazette.com
