Public Libraries

Laws going into effect in July are creating issues around the country: In Texas, school vendors must now rate sexual content in books sold to districts; Iowa public libraries that share space with school libraries struggle to adapt to new restrictive legislation meant for schools; and large book reviews forced by new law begins in Florida.

In Katy (TX) ISD, a content review for "explicit" materials will stop book purchases and leave already-bought titles in a warehouse; a Florida mom claims I Am Billie Jean King harmed her daughter; and book banning battles in Connecticut and California.

In a keynote conversation to open the conference, Blume discussed decades of fighting for free speech and a lifetime of loving libraries.

While situations may differ, knowing your library display policy and garnering parental support are key steps, says free speech expert Pat Scales.