After much debate and controversy, the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library has made significant changes to its book collection, moving several challenged books to adult sections of the library. The decision came after the library board voted not to move the book “All Boys Aren’t Blue” in July due to sexually explicit content.
Since then, the library has updated its policies and moved ten challenged books, including sex education books like “Naked: Not Your Average Sex Encyclopedia” and “Sex Education: A Guide to Life” to adult sections. Controversial books like “It’s Perfectly Normal” and “The Big Bath House” have also been relocated.
One of the most challenged books, “Melissa,” has been recommended for placement in the young adult section for “non-sexual nudity,” while books by author Ellen Hopkins and graphic novels have also been moved for explicit content. Challenges to books like “Worm Loves Worm” and “A Family is a Family is a Family” were denied, while two challenges remain for books addressing LGBTQ+ content and gender identity.
The changes come in response to new state aid requirements by the Alabama Public Library Service, which aims to keep sexually explicit and inappropriate materials out of youth sections. The policy changes have been met with criticism from librarians who feel it unfairly targets LGBTQ+ content.
Overall, the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library has made significant adjustments to its collection to address concerns raised by challengers, while also ensuring access to diverse and inclusive literature for its patrons.
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