Libraries are more than books—they’re community lifelines. They provide knowledge, resources, and a space where anyone, regardless of means, can explore the world. But in North Dakota, a new bill could force libraries to restrict access to entire sections of their collections, potentially locking away works by Cormac McCarthy, Stephen King, and even Shakespeare. Supporters call it protecting children. But it’s not; it’s censorship. At stake isn’t just what’s on the shelves—it’s whether we can decide for ourselves what we and our families read.
Rob Port has the full commentary; it should make you angry.
SB 2307
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new subsection to section 12.1-27.1-01 and two new sections to chapter 12.1-27.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the definition of a public library, required safety policies and technology protection measures, and the attorney general’s review of public libraries, school districts, and state agencies for compliance with statutes protecting minors from explicit sexual material; to amend and reenact subsection 5 of section 12.1-27.1-01 and sections 12.1-27.1-03.1, 12.1-27.1-03.5, and 12.1-27.1-11 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to obscenity control; to provide for a report to the legislative management; and to provide a penalty.
House Sponsors: Steiner (R, District 37), Tveit (R, District 33),
Senate Sponsors: Boehm (R, District 33), Erbele (R, District 28), Hogue (R, District 38), Weston (R, District 15),
