Bs a ® y Alabama Public @ Library Service September 12, 2023, The Honorable Kay Ivey Governor of Alabama Dear Governor Ivey I would like to express my gratitude for your thoughtful and considerate concern regarding the environment in Alabama’s public libraries, particularly with regard to the materials available to families and children. I fully understand the importance of public libraries as vital community resources that facilitate learning and promote literacy, transcending socio-economic boundaries to offer a safe space for everyone to explore, read, and learn. Please find responses to your letter dated September 1, 2023, in which you indicated that you are requesting more information to consider whether reform is necessary. The Alabama Public Library Service, originally established in 1959 as a distinet agency, traces its roots back to the Public Library Service Division of the Department of Archives and History, a period spanning from 1939 to 1959 as governed by Ala Code §§ 41-8+1 to 41-8-48. ALits core, the mission of the Alabama Public Library Service revolves around fostering cooperative systems that ensure access to books and library services across the municipalities and counties within our great stale. Many of the libraries in Alabama are in small communities. To fulfill this paramount objective, the agency assumes a pivotal role in aiding and advising established public libraries while actively assisting communities that aspire to establish their own public libraries, Moreover, it plays a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of existing public libraries and facilitates the establishment of joint library service units at the local government level. One of our more recent programs was helping secure a grant for Wi-Fi hotspots to better serve underserved communities Furthermore, the Alabama Public Library Service is entrusted with the reception and responsible administration of federal funding allocated for libraries under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) (PL 91-600), as amended, operating in alignment with the Basic State Plan for Alabama. In addition to its broader mission, the Alabama Public Library Service extends its reach to provide direct library services to both current and retired Alabama state employees. It is also worth noting that the ageney is recognized as a Regional Library by the National Library Services for the Blind and Print Disabled. In this capacity, it provides direct services to approximately 8,000 residents who are blind or have physical disabilities that meet the eligibility criteria for this invaluable service.Response to your questions QI. What measures has the Alabama Public Library Service taken to ensure that local libraries are providing parents with means to supervise their children and youth before encountering age-inappropriate materials? RI. The Alabama Public Library Service has not received specific requests from public libraries seeking guidance on the provision of resources for parents to supervise their children and youth in navigating age-appropriate materials. It’s essential to recognize that the lity for determining the suitability of library materials for children lies primarily with parents or guardians. Children constitute a diverse demographic with varying abilities, talents, and needs, influenced by factors such as age, cultural background, sociological context, and economic circumstances. Consequently, itis crucial to account for this diversity when planning library services. The Alabama Public Library Service actively encourages libraries to engage their communities in the policymaking process. This collaborative approach helps libraries better align their setvices with the unique requirements and preferences of their local populations, fostering a more inclusive and responsive environment for families and children seeking appropriate materials aind resources. Q2. What role has the Library Service played in advising local libraries about screening inappropriate content in libraries and making determinations as to whether library content is appropriate for children? R2. When requested, the Library Service provides valuable guidance to individual libraries by identifying and recommending resources that aid in their collection development process. ‘These resources are rich in reviews and assessments that enable library professionals to make informed decisions about whether specific content aligns with their collection development criteria. The reviewers contributing to these resources represent a wide range of expertise, including subject specialists ranging from medical professionals, political analysts, language experts, scientists, other librarians, and educators, among, others. Furthermore, many libraries establish youth services advisory groups to actively participate in recommending subjects or specific titles for inclusion in the library’s collection. This collaborative approach ensures that the library’s offerings resonate with the needs and interests of its diverse user base, including children and youth, Q3. In the past year, has the Library Service received any complaints from parents about the display of age-inappropriate materials? 3. The Library Service did not receive any complaints from concemed parents regarding the display of age-inappropriate materials until the last APLS board meeting held in August.At the August 10, 2023 APLS board meeting, several persons expressed concerns about materials in the children’s Section of various public libraries throughout Alabama. At the ‘August meeting, the APLS Board of Directors expressed concern over what they were told and recommended the agency to determine the holdings of top censored books in public libraries throughout the state. On September 4, 2023, the APLS Board of Directors received a letter from the organization known as Clean Up Alabama on bebalf of “many concerned parents” which states that “libraries have become a place where materials with pornographic, highly sexual, and radical gender ideological content (is) being distributed to minors.” Alabama public libraries play a multifaceted and crucial role in the lives of children. They serve as: 1.) education hubs that supports a child’s learning at every stage; 2.) promote literacy development by providing access to age-appropriate books and hosting reading programs that encourage the development of strong reading skills and a love for reading; 3.) provide cultural and social spaces to host events, workshops, and activities, that expose children to different cultures, ideas, and experiences; 4.) provide homework assistance, services, and resources (including www.HomeworkAlabama.org) to support children’s academic success; 5.) provide access to computers and the internet, bridging the digital divide and enabling children to develop digital literacy skills necessary for the modem world; 6.) provide safe and inclusive environments for children to explore their interests, access information, and engage in educational activities; 7.) offer resources and guidance to parents, helping them support their children’s educational and reading needs; 8.) foster early childhood development through innovative programs specifically designed for infants and toddlers—like Reimagining School Readiness—to prepare children for success in school and in life; and 9.) provide an access to diverse perspectives to help children appreciate and understand the world’s rich tapestry. Q4. To receive supplemental state library aid, local libraries must submit (o the Library Service ‘among other things, written policies addressing such topics as “patrons,” “materials selection," and “speciat service groups.” To what extent do the written policies submitted by local libraries facilitate supervision over their children’s browsing? Please provide copies of such polices submitted to the Library Service in support of a local library's request for supplemental state aid. 4. The Alabama Public Library Service collects and retains library policies from over 220 public libraries in the state, all of which are developed and approved by their respective library boards. The Alabama Public Library Service does not approve or disapprove these policies. We have compiled findings from our files, which shed light on the extent to which these written policies submitted by local libraries facilitate supervision over children’s browsing: However, it’s important to note that our findings are not definitive,as libraries frequently update their policies, and there may be delays in sending them to our agency. Please see findings in the appendix of these responses. QS. Are you aware of any model library polices (from any jurisdiction) that support parental supervision of children and youth library browsing? If'so, please provide examples. If not research the matter and provide a summary of your findings, including examples. RS. Many library cards issued to children of certain ages often feature printed statements that make it clear that parents are responsible for materials checked out by their children. Some even require parents/guardians to be present and witness the materials being checked out. Additionally, numerous public libraries in Alabama have established statements regarding the acceptable presence of children in the library, typically encouraging parents or caregivers to accompany their children. These policies primarily prioritize the safety and well-being of children while using library facilities. Regarding recent incidents in Prattville, Ozark, and Foley, we are witnessing in real time the revision of new models of library policies regarding parental guidance for children visiting the library. Several of these have been reflected in statements made to the press during interviews with librarians and governmental authorities. At this time, APLS has not seen any actual model policies that have been presented to local boards for approval. Researching this inquiry resulted in finding an example that comes from the Springdale Public Library in Springdale, Arkansas. They have implemented three specific policies aimed at supervising children. These policies include: 1. “Children ages 12 and younger will require parental supervision at all times in any part of the library.” 2. “Children ages 13 and 14 do not need direct supervision, but a parent or guardian must be present in the library.” 3. “Childrens ages 15 and older do not need direct supervision and may use the library freely.” (Source: www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/jul/1 9/springdale-library-board-backs- tules-to-require) The rationale behind these policies, as articulated in the article, emphasizes that library staff cannot feasibly monitor children’s behavior or their choices of reading material Instead, the policies underscore that parents bear the responsibility for their children’s use of library resources and the selection of materials. This approach reflects a common strategy in libraries to balance child safety and access to the resources while encouraging parental involvement and responsibility. Q6. What role have you or the Library Service played in advising local libraries about hosting events organized by concerned parents, including any events in Millbrook or Madison?R6. When inquired about the hosting of events of any nature, including those organized by concerned parents, the Alabama Public Library Service provides guidance by directing libraries to adhere to their established local library policies. In cases where a library does not have a specific policy in place, libraries are reminded that consulting with their Board of Trustees is the appropriate course of action. This approach ensures that libraries follow established protocols and guidelines when hosting events. With respect to events in Millbrook, Madison, and other areas of the state, I played no role in the cancellations of said events. Q7. Please provide an itemized account of how much money the Library Service has paid to the ‘American Library Association over the past five years. For each expenditure, please explain the purpose of the expenditure and what benefit the Library Service received from it R7. A total of $38,011.62 has been paid to the American Library Association in the last five fiscal years: FY23 $3,103.00 FY22 $10,712.00 FY21 $10,415.00 FY20 $5,385.62 FYI9 $8,396.00 FY 2023 © Membership for the American Library Associ ° ° FY 2022 jon $3,103.00 Access to over 36 Divisions and roundtables publications, webinars, and discussions groups. Journals that specifically relate to public libraries, at-risk youth, STEM/STEAM, human resources, trustees, underserved populations such diverse geographic as cultural and socioeconomic or who have limited functional literacy or information skills, and various cutting-edge technologies, (These journals greatly assist in supporting the goals and objectives of the Alabama Public Library Service in our Long-Range Plan.) Discounts to attend ALA conferences and divisional conferences Discounts on purchasing promotional materials including bookmarks, READ posters, and cups/mugs, Discounts on published library and information books * Membership for the American Library Association $3,427.00 (See the above listed benefits)© Short Takes for Trustee $4,500.00 ©. The benefits of “Short Takes” video series are as follows: introduction to Trustee roles in libraries, Board Ethics, Board Meetings, Library Advocacy, Strategic Planning, Working Effectively with Friends Groups, Evaluating a Library Director, Board Self-Evaluation, and Succession Planning. “Short Takes” meets the need in the Alabama Public Library Service Administrative code covering required trustee training. In 2021 and 2022, the agency staff developed 10-minute Trustee training vignettes that are specific to Alabama Code and Laws. * ALA Annual Conference Registration Fees (Virtual Event) June 23-28, 2022 $2,785.00 FY 2021 ‘© Benefits of this virtual conference were informational takeaways including examples, such as: " “News You can Use: Digital Public Library of America” that focused on curation of e-content and presenting interesting library-friendly licensing models. * “Marketing your small library: a litle investment can go a long way”; “Transformational Capital Campaigns”; “Maverick Approaches that Lead to Organizational-Changing Projects” and “News You Can Use”. These sessions provided staff with information to readily share to our Alabama libraries, especially those that cannot afford public relations staff. © The virtual event offered Library Service staff a unique opportunity to observe library activities taking place beyond Alabama’s borders. This experience allowed for a valuable comparison of similarities and differences between Alabama libraries and those across the nation. As a result, APLS staff were inspired to develop new programs to share with public libraries. Membership for the American Library Association $ 3,185.00 (See benefits posted under FY 2023) Short Takes for Trustees $4,500.00 (See benefits posted under FY2023) ALA Annual Conference Registration Fees (Virtual Event) June 15, 2021 $1,502.00 ©. This conference held many sessions on COVID-19 and how libraries responded to the pandemic by adapting services and resources. One of the main benefits of this conference was the realization that our public libraries pivoted with their services and programs. 2020 Core Virtual Forum Registration Fee $475.00 © This forum was the first combined conference dealing with library leadership, management, building facilities, and technology. This forum was one of the few professional development opportunities libraries had access to at that time, Disaster Planning for Libraries $175.00© This workshop was of great value to our staff. The disaster planning was specific to libraries. It covered the tomadoes and hurricanes that often threaten and destroy our communities. Other topics covered included fires, flooding, active shooters. As a result of attending this program, the staff developed a disaster plan training for librarians across the state. Smaller libraries requested and received assistance in developing their own plans based on the unique circumstances of their community. ‘* Essential Project Management Skill Library Workers E-Course $578.00 © Having the skills to manage small to enormous projects is not always intuitive. This course provided the rudiments of project management and how to multitask to ensure projects stay on point. The knowledge of this course developed a more skilled and effective agency staff, FY 2020 ‘+ Membership for the American Library Association $3,726.00 (See benefits posted under FY2023) © Conference Registration Fee 2020 ALA Midwinter Meeting (Nancy Pack) $330.00 © ASCLA (Association of Specialized Cooperative Library) committee met to develop and review guidelines for the visually impaired and physically disabled. One of my areas of expertise is working with the visually and physically disabled. My educational achievements include a minor in Aging and Vision Loss. As such, I was asked to serve on a committee developing new standards for serving this population. © Iwas on the Joseph Campbell Award Committee, which is presented to a person or institution that has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of library service for the blind and physically disabled. The committee worked during the conference to review and select a recipient. © [attended general ASCLA programs. The ASCLA division focused on serving the underserved populations such as: prisons, hearing impaired, aging populations, autism, homeless, and mentally challenged. The knowledge regarding underserved populations is essential in ensuring that the Long-Range Plan of APLS includes these groups. * Conference Registration Fee 2020 Public Library Association Conference $890.00 © This particular conference focused on electronic information and recourses. This was during a time when publishers were looking to change the platforms of providing electronic materials and changing the fee structure. APLS staff needed current and accurate information to assist public libraries that were in consortiums. This knowledge was shared with other libraries that were interested in electronic resources. © New and emerging technologies were displayed in the exhibit halls for digitalization of information, actually programs discussed artificial intelligence the role it would have on the next generation. A lot was learned by taking a closer look at electronic resource platforms and contracts.‘© Providing Services to People Living with Alzheimer's Workshop $54.00 ©. This provided various examples of programing ideas to reach this special population. * Youth Services Storytime Workshop $54.00 ©. This webinar provided beneficial ideas on providing virtual story times and programing for youth. ‘* Books for APLS Reference Department $331.62 © Bibliotherapy Library Space Planning and Public Library Guide Libraries that Leam: Keys to Managing Organizational Knowledge Information at Work: Info Management in the Workplace The Library Workplace Idea Book: Proactive Steps for Positive Change These books benefit our professional development collection that all librarians in Alabama have access to. eo 0000 FY2019 * Membership for the American Library Association $3,896.00 (See benefits posted under FY2023) * Short Takes for Trustees $4,500.00 (See benefits posted under FY2023) Note: Staff reports on the programs they attended virtually and in person are available at APLS, 6030 Monticello Drive for your review. Q8-A. To what extent does the Alabama Public Library Service have existing policies of procedures that incorporate the American Library Association rules or standards? R8-A. The Alabama Public Library Service’s collection development policy adopted the January 23, 1996 version of the American Library Bill of Rights. It’s important to note that this particular adaptation of the ALA Library Bill of Rights does not include Article VII, which was adopted in 2019 by the association, The new article states: “All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possesses a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people’s privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information.” The Alabama Public Library Service is aware of the Alabama Code that relates to parental access to their children’s library records. As such, the Executive Board of Trustees of the Library Service has not adopted or ratified the newer version in order to align with the legal framework and regulations in place within theQB-B. slate. As one of the roles of the Alabama Public Library Service we have made it known to libraries that if they choose to use the ALA's Bill of Rights, they should modify it to reflect current Alabama Laws. Does the Library Service otherwise rely on ALA materials—or advise local libraries to rely on ALA materials for any purpose (such as reading lists)? To what extent Library Services encourages the use of ALA suggested reading list for children and youth, please describe what steps the Library Service takes to vet the list for age appropriateness and 10 facilitate parents' rights to guide their children in accessing these books. R8-B. The Alabama Public Library Services utilizes certain American Library Association Qa. RO-A. (ALA) materials for various purposes. Two manuals, which have been collaboratively developed with Alabama Public Library staff and other librarians includes the ALA Bill of Rights as a part of the appendices. These manuals are available to public libraries to serve as resources that can be reviewed and adapted to meet their specific needs. Regarding suggested reading lists for children and youth, the Library Service does not routinely create statewide reading lists. Given the vast subject areas covered in ALA's ‘many reading lists, and other that are available on the web, the Alabama Public Library Service recognizes that it lacks the expertise required to thoroughly evaluate the extensive range of materials featured in these selections. However, the Statewide summer reading committee composed of youth services librarians in Alabama usually develops a list of materials to fit the state wide theme. The Alabama Public Library Service has not received any objections. ALA often adheres to specific criteria in constructing lists of noteworthy reading materials. Two such lists are the Newbery Medal which honors the author of the most distinguished contribution to children’s American literature, and the Caldecott Medal honors the illustrator of the most distinguished picture book for children. What role does ALA play in the operation or administration of local libraries? The Alabama Public Library Service is not aware of any roles that the American Library Association plays in'the operation or administration of local libraries. To reiterate, it is the responsibility of local library boards to draft and formulate policies, which ideally should include a procedural component for effective implementation. Q9-B. Are you aware of local library affiliations with the ALA? R9-B. First, | would like to note that all state library job positions as listed with Alabama State Personnel require a degree from an ALA-accredited library school. | am aware thatAlabama has a local chapter of the American Library Association. I know that Paula Larita is the council person for the Alabama Library Association (ALLA). My research on the ALLA is as follows: Alabama has 1,685 libraries (School, K-12, Academic, College and Universities, Special, Military and Religious.) The active number of members in the Alabama Chapter of the American Library Association is a total of 386 personal members and 10 institutional members. ‘The School of Library and Information Science of The University of Alabama is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS) and the American Library Association. At one time they had a student chapter of the American Library Association. Students to the School of Library and Information at UA are eligible for induction Beta Phi Mu. Beta Phi Mu recognizes the scholastic achievements and leadership potential of individuals in Library and Information Science and related fields, promoting the values of scholarship, leadership and service among its members. Membership eligibility in Beta Phi Mu is extended through invitations by faculty from institutions accredited by the American Library Association or other recognized accrediting agencies approved by the Beta Phi Mu Executive Board It should be noted that several Legislators have received the Public Servant award from the Alabama Library Association for their contributions made to Alabama Libraries. Q9-C. To what extent have local libraries adopted the ALA's brary Bill of Rights.” R9-C. Our agency does not have official data on this, nor does our agency have any information regarding other local libraries that are not public, such as school or academic libraries. Also, several revisions of the Library Bill of Rights exist, as previously noted in question 8. In conclusion, The Alabama Public Library Service is proud to state that all 67 counties have a public library for our Alabamians to use. This has not always been the case. It has been the hard work and support of the Alabama Governors and Legislatures to provide this essential and valuable service to our State.We appreciate the opportunity to reply to your questions. If additional information is needed, let us know, The Alabama Public Library Service would like to strengthen our relationship with your office to assist in your educational initiatives, Attached you will find: Appendix of Library Policies A report on ALA: Should the Alabama Public Library Service Sever Ties with the American Library Association? A Critical Analysis Sincerely, C Cae Naney C. Pack, Ph. D.