In a significant move to uphold intellectual freedom, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the “Freedom to Read Act” on December 9, 2024, prohibiting the banning of books in public and school libraries across the state. This legislation positions New Jersey alongside states like Illinois and Minnesota in actively opposing the national trend of book censorship.
Key Provisions of the Legislation
The “Freedom to Read Act” mandates that public and school libraries cannot exclude books based on the origin, background, or views of the material or its authors. It specifically prohibits the removal of books solely because an individual finds certain content offensive, with exceptions made for materials deemed developmentally inappropriate for specific age groups. Additionally, the law requires local school boards and public library governing bodies to establish clear policies for the selection and removal of library materials, including procedures to address public concerns.
Protections for Librarians
A notable aspect of the legislation is the legal protection it offers to librarians, shielding them from civil and criminal charges when complying with the law. This provision aims to alleviate the growing concerns among library professionals about potential legal repercussions stemming from the availability of contested materials.
Governor Murphy’s Perspective
Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of safeguarding intellectual freedom, stating, “It’s the antithesis of all these book-banning states that you see. I’m incredibly proud to have signed it, but also acknowledge that America…is becoming a patchwork quilt country. It really matters where you live.”
Context of the Legislation
The enactment of this law comes amid a national surge in book challenges, particularly those addressing LGBTQ+ and racial themes. The American Library Association reported over 4,200 challenges to works in school and public libraries in 2023, a significant increase from nearly 2,600 in 2022.
In contrast to states imposing stricter controls on library content, New Jersey’s legislation underscores a commitment to preserving access to diverse perspectives and narratives.
Reactions from the Library Community
Librarians and advocates for intellectual freedom have welcomed the new law. Karen Grant, president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, remarked, “The bill will protect the intellectual freedom of students as well as acknowledge that school libraries are centers for … .”
Martha Hickson, a … who experienced harassment over the inclusion of certain books in her school’s collection, expressed relief at the law’s passage. Reflecting on her ordeal, she noted, “After more than three years … .”
Implementation Timeline
The “Freedom to Read Act” is set to take effect in one year. In the interim, the state education commissioner and state … initiate steps to implement the law, ensuring that libraries and schools are prepared to comply with its provisions upon activation.
Conclusion
New Jersey’s “Freedom to Read Act” represents a decisive stance against the growing trend of book bans, reinforcing the state’s dedication to intellectual freedom and the protection of diverse viewpoints in educational and public institutions. By enacting this legislation, New Jersey affirms the essential role of libraries as bastions of knowledge and inclusivity, ensuring that readers have the freedom to explore a wide array of perspectives without censorship.
