The Grande Prairie Public Library says it has concerns about the potential passage of Alberta’s Bill 28.
In a post on social media, the library said “Alberta public libraries are raising serious concerns about Bill 28 including privacy, local control, and the future of library service. Bill 28 creates new barriers to access, moves decision making from local boards and trained professionals, and raises privacy concerns.”
The library said the bill could affect 324 public libraries across the province.
Library director Hailey McCullough said the proposed legislation would change how libraries are overseen by the province.
“What the Bill would update is that someone can make a complaint about a library, and that could trigger a review of the library.”
She said another proposed change would require certain books to be restricted.
“The public is very much in support in understanding that we trust the parents make decisions about what their children are reading. Libraries do not stock pornography on their shelves, we don’t have that. I think that is a very big misconception.”
“The government is saying we’re not banning books. But, restricting access to the books is a form of censorship.”
McCullough said restricted access could affect young people seeking information.
“It’s going to have a harmful effect on teens and younger kids that may be looking for the resources or support in the way of learning about their body or sexuality and things like that.”
The library has also encouraged residents to contact Danielle Smith and Dan Williams through a digital postcard campaign.
“I’m very proud of our community, they have been very much in support of us in the messages we have been sharing on social media,” McCullough said.
Other library organizations have also raised concerns. The Valleyview Library Board said it is requesting a formal reconsideration process under the Libraries Act, which would allow community members to raise concerns about specific materials.
