York County Library Board Suspends Book Purchases for Minors Amid New Legislative Mandate

York County Library Board Halts Purchase of Books for Minors

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — In a significant decision, the York County Library Board of Trustees has announced a halt on the purchase of books for minors. This comes in light of new mandates introduced by the South Carolina state legislature. The Board released a statement indicating that new book purchases would stop until they receive “further clarification and guidance” regarding the new legislative measure, known as Proviso 27.1, and a ruling from the Attorney General that would provide libraries with a clearer framework for collection development.

Understanding Proviso 27.1

The recent legislative action requires public libraries to certify to the State Library that their children’s sections do not offer any books or materials that might appeal to what the law refers to as the “prurient interest” of children under the age of thirteen. Furthermore, any such materials would only be made available with explicit parental consent. However, the term “prurient interest” has not been specifically defined, leading to widespread concern among educators, parents, and booksellers.

Local Reaction

Local bookstore owner Rayne Rickrode expressed her dismay over the Board’s decision, stating, “It’s an absolutely heartbreaking decision to make, but it’s understandable why they made the one that they did.” Her store, The Liberty Book Company in Rock Hill, commonly carries books that focus on a range of themes including popular titles by authors like John Green and materials that address LGBTQ+ topics. Rickrode voiced her concern about the subjective nature of the guideline, questioning who determines what material fits the undefined term.

“Which parent? How often? And is it a book-by-book basis?” Rickrode asked, highlighting the potential challenges that might arise from such subjective classifications. “To see all of these books with previous awards and recognitions suddenly be put on the chopping block just really makes me question what it is they think they’re protecting,” she added.

Concerns from Educators

Local educator Tiffany Evans has also shared her concerns regarding the new mandates. As a teacher and a grandparent, she feels disappointed that her 5th-grade granddaughter will have fewer book options available at the library. “As parents, grandparents, teachers, then we can monitor what our own children are doing,” Evans remarked. “The library isn’t going to purposely provide inappropriate materials, so I think it’s kind of sad that they’re not doing that now.”

Next Steps for the Library Board

In response to the public outcry and the need for clarification on the new law, the York County Library Board has scheduled a special meeting. This meeting is set for 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the York Public Library, located on East Liberty Street. The Board is expected to discuss the implications of Proviso 27.1 and how they intend to proceed regarding library collections for children.

This decision has left many citizens pondering the future of library resources available to young readers and what this means for broader access to literature in the community.