Bill > S2330

This bill establishes a special legislative commission to comprehensively examine challenges facing public libraries, particularly around digital resources and collections. The commission will investigate cost trends, consumer satisfaction, digital resource licensing, patron privacy, and data protection in libraries. Composed of 17 members including legislators, library association representatives, government officials, and experts in fields like publishing, intellectual property, and consumer protection, the commission will study how libraries are adapting to technological changes in resource access. They will research how other states are addressing digital collection challenges and make recommendations to support sustainable, diverse digital collections that maintain libraries' historic mission of providing free, accessible resources to all residents. Specifically, the commission will examine how digital resources are licensed, used, and accessed, with a focus on protecting consumer privacy and ensuring equitable access to information. By October 15, 2025, the commission must submit a detailed report with its findings and recommendations to the state's legislative and executive leadership, aiming to help libraries effectively serve the public in an increasingly digital world.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2330