Testimony Supporting Rhode Island Freedom to Read Act

We believe that strong public policy is essential to protecting the rights of readers and the integrity of libraries as trusted civic institutions.

The EveryLibrary Institute was honored to be invited by the Rhode Island Freedom to Read Coalition to submit testimony in support of S 0238 – the Freedom to Read Act (2025) and H.5726, the House companion bill. This important legislation positions Rhode Island to be a national leader in developing new policy frameworks that not only defend against censorship but also affirm the vital role of libraries, educators, writers, and creators in a free and open marketplace of ideas. We are proud to stand in support of this thoughtful and forward-looking bill.

To the Senate

EveryLibrary Institute NFP
March 12, 2025

Senate Education Committee  
Rhode Island State House  
Sent ℅ Debbie Hayden, Committee Clerk 

RE: Testimony in Support of S.0238 – The Freedom to Read Act  

Dear Senator Hanna M. Gallo, Chair; Senator Melissa A. Murray, Vice Chair; and Members of the Senate Education Committee:

I am writing on behalf of the EveryLibrary Institute NFP, a national public policy organization with a network in Rhode Island and throughout the country, to express strong support for S.0238, the Freedom to Read Act of 2025. This legislation provides clear and enforceable protections for the critical role of public and school libraries within Rhode Island's civil society. S.0238 addresses significant challenges faced by library professionals and public institutions, bringing necessary clarity, accountability, and legal certainty to library governance and policymaking, ultimately benefiting residents, educators, students, and public sector workers.

The requirement for public and school libraries to operate under state-approved model policies for material selection and reconsideration is practical, necessary, and enforceable. Across the country, libraries and school districts have faced vague, inconsistent, and ad-hoc demands for book removals, forcing public servants to navigate confusing and sometimes legally questionable processes. By establishing clear guidelines, S.0238 ensures that library collection policies are determined by expertise and public service standards rather than transient political influence or administrative uncertainty. We strongly endorse the requirement for standardized selection and reconsideration policies, which prevent arbitrary, politically motivated removals that disrupt public services and erode trust in government institutions.

Public sector workers should not face personal or professional jeopardy for adhering to lawful and ethical guidelines. This bill provides essential civil and criminal safeguards to librarians and school library staff who follow approved policies. Without this protection, individual public employees risk facing frivolous lawsuits, professional harassment, or administrative retaliation for simply fulfilling their roles. S.0238 removes the threat of recriminations and reprisals that lead to self-censorship and reinforces that policy decisions must be made through established governance structures, not through intimidation or coercion. 

A crucial provision of this bill is the prohibition of financial retaliation against libraries for maintaining diverse collections. In several states, local governments have attempted to punish libraries by cutting budgets in response to book selection decisions, undermining the economic stability of these essential institutions. This bill prevents such actions, reaffirming that library funding should be based on service needs and public access, not ideological compliance. The financial stability of libraries is a public good, benefiting job seekers, small businesses, students, and lifelong learners who rely on these services. S.0238 ensures that funding decisions are tied to operational and community priorities rather than political retribution.

The establishment of a private right of action against government entities that engage in censorship serves as a unique and significant accountability mechanism. Under S.0238, students, parents, authors, and publishers would have a clear pathway to challenge unconstitutional restrictions on library materials. This provision would ensure that local officials could not engage in censorship without facing legal consequences but without placing new penalties or restrictions on state aid or funding like in certain other states. 

Thank you for considering our testimony in support of S.0238, the Freedom to Read Act. I urge the committee to pass this important legislation to protect libraries' vital role in Rhode Island communities and schools.

Sincerely,  

John Chrastka
Executive Director 
EveryLibrary Institute  

To the House

EveryLibrary Institute NFP
6433 Fairfield Ave.
Berwyn, IL. 60402

March 31, 2025

House State Government and Elections Committee
Rhode Island State House  
Sent ℅ Steve Sepe, Committee Clerk 
[email protected]

RE: Testimony in Support of H.5726 – The Freedom to Read Act  

Dear Chair Shanley and the Members of the House State Government and Elections Committee:

I am writing on behalf of the EveryLibrary Institute NFP, a national public policy organization with a network in Rhode Island and throughout the country, to express strong support for H.5726 – the Freedom to Read Act. This timely and well-crafted bill ensures that Rhode Islanders, especially students and families, retain their right to read freely and explore ideas without political interference or censorship.  

H 5726 takes a sensible and practical approach to addressing the challenges of book censorship faced by libraries and schools. It establishes clear policies and protections for librarians and educators, requires that book challenges originate from within the local community, and protects public institutions from frivolous lawsuits. These provisions are not only constitutionally sound but also necessary.  

The bill aligns Rhode Island with the 44 states, including all of New England, that already have shield laws protecting library workers. By affirming federal standards for evaluating materials and prohibiting viewpoint-based censorship, H 5726 strengthens Rhode Island’s reputation as a state that values creative freedom and professional integrity.  

We urge the committee to pass this important legislation and help position Rhode Island as a national model for protecting the freedom to read.  

Sincerely,  

John Chrastka
Executive Director 
EveryLibrary Institute