News from Andrew Albanese: "This Week In Libraries," January 17

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PW’s Andrew Albanese has documented a busy week in libraries that is, as always, worth a read.

  • HOUSE BILL NO. 2044 in Missouri has librarians and lovers of intellectual freedom deeply concerned over establishing “five-member boards, elected by a majority vote at local town meetings, that would be empowered to determine what materials are appropriate for minors in the library. Notably, public librarians are explicitly barred from serving on such review boards—even if they live in the community.” The Blue-noses are back—though unfortuately they never seem to leave. Sign a petition against the bill here, but even more importantly, work to make sure any similar efforts in your state get dismissed.

  • Congratulations from RF to new ALA Executive Director Tracie D. Hall.

  • As posted on RF yesterday, two librarians are quantifying the results (so far) of the library Macmillan Boycott.

  • Check out NPR’s report on the Top Ten Circulating Books of All Time at the New York Public LIbrary.

  • Jason Reynolds has been named National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. Congratulations, Mr. Reynolds—very well deserved!

Thanks, Mr. Albanese, for compiling the news!