As censorship becomes more prevalent throughout the country, states are turning to legislation to cut attempts off at the knee. From proposed legislation threatening state funding to libraries to proposed administrative fees to individuals who challenge multiple books per month, states are looking for ways to defend the inalienable right to read. In New Mexico recently proposed legislation which aimed to curtail censorship within public libraries was recently introduced but ran out of time in a short budget session. While this legislation was well supported and will likely be reintroduced, there are lessons to be learned. Follow the legislative process, and hear from NM Deputy State Librarian and ALA UABB member, Kate Alderete on the ups and downs of passing anti book ban legislation and what ALA resources are available to library workers.
