Library Access Data 24/25 School Year
A provision within HB 1069 (2023) requires that every school district give parents a way to restrict library access for their children. This was not a new "right" for parents, the ability to set restrictions in the library for our children always existed, but this update in the law solidified that there must be a process. We asked all 67 districts to provide us with information on library access at the end of August for the 24/25 school year. Here is the data we have received to date (9/20/24).
A provision within HB 1069 (2023) requires that every school district give parents a way to restrict library access for their children. This was not a new "right" for parents, the ability to set restrictions in the library for our children always existed, but this update in the law solidified that there must be a process. We asked all 67 districts to provide us with information on library access at the end of August for the 24/25 school year. Here is the data we have received to date (9/20/24).
Overwhelmingly, Parents Trust Their Educators
For the most part districts that offered a parent opt-out saw similar responses. The choices varied from one district to the next, but often it was a default of unlimited access, followed by a mid-range set of limitations, ending with either no access or a parent giving permission for each check out. There were also a number of districts that reported 100% student access to start the year. Some of these districts did not implement a formal opt-out form, while others have a form (unused by any parent) with restriction options.
Some Districts Put Caution Above Education
A handful of districts have started the year with limited or no library check out access for students until a parent permission form is turned in, requiring that parents make it clear their desires for access. This decision ignores the heavy majority of completed forms that grant full access to the library and the concern that the students without parent engagement and support at home (most in need of library access at school) are left behind by this added hurdle. But, it does follow the state's recommended guidance to "err on the side of caution" by limiting access.
The Data May Shift, But Unlikely to Really Change
We anticipate that the the numbers of restrictions could grow slightly as the year progresses, but if it's anything like the last two years, it's unlikely we'll see more than 20% of parents in any one district set restrictions on library access. Currently, we have heard back from about half of the districts.
One thing is for sure, laws are being written to cater to a very small percentage of citizens that support the idea of government censorship in the library. Our hope is that this data bolsters the confidence of our district leaders to err on the side of education.