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Residents warn York County against library collection changes, cite legal risk
Summary
Multiple residents told council the proposed York County Library collection-policy changes could effectively move children's and teen books to adult sections, which commenters said would limit access to diverse materials and risk litigation similar to a pending Greenville County case.
During the public forum period July 21, two residents told council they oppose proposed changes to the York County Library Board's collection policy that would relocate some materials from children's and teen areas to adult sections.
"Books celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion are a vital asset to the breadth of the public library offerings," said Judy Roars (resident), who identified herself as a parent. She urged the council to ensure the appointed Library Board acts transparently and without political agendas and warned that a similar policy in Greenville County has prompted litigation.
Lacey Lane (resident, Fort Mill), who described herself as a school counselor of 17 years and a library patron, also urged careful legal review. "Adopting this policy would expose York County to serious legal, financial, and reputational risks," Lane told council. She asked the county attorney to review First and Fourteenth Amendment implications and to advise the board.
Speakers asked council to ensure board appointments are representative and to prioritize collection-development funding rather than potential litigation costs.
There was no council vote on library policy at the July 21 meeting; the remarks were delivered during the public forum portion. Council members acknowledged the concerns and asked staff and the county attorney to review legal implications and advise the Library Board and council about next steps.
