Proposal would limit why Montana libraries could exclude books

School libraries would have to follow rules limiting why they could exclude books and other resources. These rules would cover school library books and other resources. A creator's origin, background, or views could not be the sole reason for excluding a resource. Disapproval based on politics, religion, or other beliefs could not justify excluding a resource from the library catalog. The proposal specified July 1, 2025, as its effective date, but it died without becoming law.

School boards would set a process for reviewing objections to library materials. Students attending the school served by the library, their parents or guardians, and staff employed at that school could submit objections. Challenged materials would remain available to students and school staff until the review ends. The process would need a reasonable timeline for completing reviews. After each review ends, boards would send the state superintendent of public instruction the material's details, outcome, contact person, and records of any public hearing.

Public library boards would adopt rules for choosing materials and reviewing challenges, with chief librarians running those processes. Public libraries could not ban, remove, or restrict access to materials solely because of the views or ideas they express. Chief librarians could decline, remove, or restrict materials for practical reasons, valid concerns about teaching or audience suitability, or compliance with state or federal law. Allowed reasons could include limited shelf space, sensitive topics unsuitable for the intended audience, or choosing materials for a focused collection. After each challenge or reconsideration ends, boards would send the state librarian the material's details, outcome, contact person, and records of any public hearing.

Public libraries could not punish employees for doing their jobs in line with the board's written materials policy. The protection would cover public library employees against actions such as firing, suspension, and reassignment. The library board would need to adopt a written policy that follows the proposed materials rules. The employee's work would need to follow that policy.