Representative Morales introduces Freedom to Read Act to combat library censorship in Rhode Island

The House Committee on State Government and Elections convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss the Freedom to Read Act, a proposed legislation aimed at protecting intellectual freedom in libraries across Rhode Island. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, including librarians, educators, and authors, who expressed strong support for the bill.

Representative Morales opened the discussion by highlighting the increasing pressure on libraries to censor materials and restrict access to information. She noted that since 2021, there have been 28 book challenges in Rhode Island, emphasizing that these challenges often target diverse perspectives rather than inappropriate content. Morales introduced the Freedom to Read Act, which aims to establish clear standards for library material selection and protect librarians from political interference and wrongful censorship.

The proposed legislation would require the chief of library services to develop a model policy for selecting and maintaining library collections based on professional standards. It would also create a transparent process for community members to voice concerns about library materials, ensuring that any challenges are handled professionally and fairly. Morales stressed that the bill does not prevent parents from making choices for their children but aims to prevent censorship driven by political motivations.

Aaron Coutu Jones, director of the Warwick Public Library, supported the bill, explaining that libraries serve diverse communities and must reflect a wide range of voices. He warned against allowing government or a small group of individuals to dictate what materials should be available, arguing that such actions threaten the core values of democracy.

Several other witnesses echoed these sentiments, including Eric Hasselhurst from the National Education Association of Rhode Island, who emphasized the importance of protecting diverse voices in literature. Jocelyn Antonio from the Hassenfeld Institute highlighted the public health implications of access to diverse information, particularly for marginalized youth.

Authors Padma Venkatraman and Jeanette Bradley shared personal experiences regarding the impact of book bans on their work and the importance of representation in literature. They urged the committee to pass the Freedom to Read Act to ensure that all voices are heard and that creators feel safe to express themselves.

The committee members engaged in discussions about the bill's language and its implications for library governance. Concerns were raised about potential conflicts between the duties of librarians and governing boards, but overall, the testimonies reflected a strong consensus in favor of the legislation.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were urged to consider the broader implications of censorship and the importance of protecting the freedom to read. The Freedom to Read Act represents a significant step toward safeguarding intellectual freedom in Rhode Island's libraries, ensuring that diverse perspectives remain accessible to all.