Bill > A07353

This bill, known as the "protecting libraries' independence act," aims to establish protections for public libraries and librarians by defining key terms and providing legal safeguards. The bill defines several important terms, including "library material" (which encompasses a wide range of media formats), "librarian" (an employee responsible for library materials), "public library" (libraries receiving state funding or municipal support), and "individual with a vested interest" (a resident served by the library). The bill mandates that public libraries make reasonable efforts to provide library materials requested by local residents and, critically, provides legal immunity for library staff members who perform actions in good faith. This means that librarians cannot be sued or criminally prosecuted for their professional decisions regarding material selection, acquisition, removal, or display, which helps protect them from potential challenges or legal threats related to their professional responsibilities. The legislation appears designed to support librarians' professional judgment and ensure libraries can continue to serve their communities without fear of legal repercussions.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7353