The Pasadena Independent School District Board of Trustees on Aug. 26 approved a new Instructional Resources/Library Materials policy (EFB Local) to implement changes required by Senate Bill 13, including new steps for recommending, posting and appealing library materials. The board voted to adopt the policy after a presentation from district counsel and staff; the motion was made by Marshall Kendrick and seconded by Nelda Sullivan and carried unanimously.
The policy, effective Sept. 1, 2025, requires that recommended library materials follow guidelines from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission and establishes that librarians and professional staff draft recommendations that will be presented to the board, which will now take final action on materials to be acquired or accepted as donations. The policy requires the superintendent to make the list of proposed or donated materials available to the board at least 30 days before a vote and directs the district to post that list publicly for at least 30 days before the board acts.
The rule creates an informal challenge step handled initially by a campus librarian or administrator, followed by a formal challenge in which the director of library services will appoint a review committee that may include librarians, teachers and parent or community representatives. The policy provides a defined procedure for an individual to appeal a committee decision to the board in accordance with administrative procedures the superintendent will develop. The policy also addresses gifts and donations and establishes a triennial review schedule, with earlier review allowed if necessary.
Board members asked how the district will notify the public about posted materials; district staff said a new website page will list proposed purchases, send parent notifications, and host feedback forms, and that the district will also use existing parent committees and campus agendas to share information. A staff member identified as "Melissa" described plans to post items proposed for purchase and to compile parent feedback for board consideration. Superintendent Doctor Lopez and Director Harris participated in the discussion.
The approved policy text cited Senate Bill 13 as the legislative driver and states the superintendent must develop administrative procedures to ensure library collection compliance with applicable policy and library standards. The board approved the policy by voice vote with no recorded dissents.