Arizona bill could make librarians felons for giving minors access to “sexually explicit” books. Critics say classics could be affected.

An Arizona bill (SB 1435) is being considered today and would expand restrictions on what minors can access in pubic libraries. If passed it would make it a Class 5 felony (up to 2.5 years in prison) for librarians or school employees to refer or facilitate access to material defined as sexually explicit.

The bill’s definition is much broader than typical obscenity law. It includes textual descriptions of sexual conduct or even touching someone’s clothed buttocks. Legal experts quoted in the article say that under the wording, books like Romeo and Juliet, the Bible and encyclopedias could all technically fall under the ban. The bill doesn't include the usual exemption for works with serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value (although maybe that still wouldn't help).

First Amendment scholars argue the felony penalties are likely unconstitutional and would chill librarian speech. Similar legislation in Idaho led at least one small library to effectively become adults-only to avoid lawsuits.

• Supporters say it’s a common sense effort to protect children.
• Critics say it’s a de facto book ban that could drastically reshape how libraries operate, especially smaller ones that can’t physically separate collections.

The current governor has vetoed similar bills but the political landscape could change after the next election.

Curious how people here think libraries should balance parental control, minors’ access, and the First Amendment. Where should the line actually be?