York County Library Adopts New LGBTQ Book Policy Amid Legal Warnings

The York County Library Board has approved a new book collection policy that critics warn could restrict children’s access to LGBTQ-related materials and invite First Amendment litigation.

According to reporting by the Rock Hill Herald, the policy instructs librarians to consider reviews from RatedBooks.org, a website that flags so-called “objectionable content” when selecting youth materials.

The policy also allows books addressing “gender identity or other mature themes” to be excluded from the children’s section and shelved elsewhere.

Opponents argue that the site reflects ideological bias and that incorporating it into official policy undermines professional librarians’ expertise. One board member cast the lone dissenting vote, warning the move could expose the county to lawsuits.

Ahead of the vote, the ACLU of South Carolina sent a letter cautioning that relocating LGBTQ-themed children’s books could violate minors’ First Amendment rights. Greenville County is already facing federal litigation over a similar policy.

Supporters of the change say the policy mirrors school procedures and protects children from inappropriate material.

Freedom to Read SC continues to monitor policy changes affecting public libraries across the state and supports lawful, viewpoint-neutral collection practices grounded in professional standards.

Read the full Rock Hill Herald report →
https://www.heraldonline.com/news/local/article313627135.html