Finding the right books for your child’s school library is far from perfect science as librarians try to find the perfect mix for students. Through Wisconsin’s Common School Fund, districts receive thousands of dollars each year to fund the purchase of new books and other materials to be distributed through the libraries to the tune of $37 per student, according to Education Week magazine. Before choosing books, each school librarian considers a number of different factors, including quality of text, age appropriateness, and format. Parents can request that certain books be removed from school libraries if they deem them inappropriate. According to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, 43 titles were banned or restricted in Wisconsin School Libraries during the 2022-2023 school years, many of which have LGBTQ+ themes. The Wisconsin Legislature recently introduced a bill late last year that would criminalize school librarians for purchasing books that are considered “obscene,” potentially joining 12 other states. In his testimony, State Senator Andre Jacque, one of the bill’s co-authors, says they are “ensuring that when parents send their children to school, they’re sending them to a safe space.” Gibraltar Area Schools Superintendent Brett Stousland is proud of their library staff and how they choose their materials. He adds that parents can always see what books are available and can make their concerns heard to the board.

Opponents of the bill say many of the goals outlined are already in place. The Wisconsin Legislature also circulated a bill last year that would require public and school libraries to alert parents about what kids under 16 are checking out.