Bill > H636

This bill establishes comprehensive procedures for selecting and managing library media in public schools, creating a new system to review and approve library materials. The legislation requires each public school unit to establish a 10-member Community Library Advisory Committee composed of five parents and five school employees who will review and recommend library media based on specific criteria, including age-appropriateness, educational value, and avoiding sexually explicit or vulgar content. The committee must evaluate all library media, including donated materials and book fair offerings, and ensure that materials support student learning and are suitable for the intended age group. Schools must maintain a public database of rejected library materials and provide transparency by posting recommended materials and selection criteria on their websites. Parents, teachers, and county residents can submit objections to library media, and if a recommendation receives 10 or more specific objection letters, the committee must review the challenges. The bill also creates a legal mechanism allowing parents, guardians, or county residents to sue a public school unit for violations of these procedures, with potential remedies including declaratory relief, injunctive relief, $5,000 per violation damages, and attorney's fees. The State Board of Education will maintain a statewide database of rejected library materials, which will be updated annually and made publicly accessible.

Education, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H636