PRINCETON, N.J. — On Monday, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy enacted a new law aimed at protecting the integrity of public and school libraries by prohibiting the banning of books. This legislation also safeguards librarians from facing civil or criminal repercussions for adhering to the law.

With this new law, New Jersey joins the ranks of other Democratic-led states such as Illinois and Minnesota that have similarly sought to combat book bans. Governor Murphy signed the bill at a public library in Princeton, conveniently located near the esteemed campus of Princeton University. He denounced the trend in Republican-controlled states where certain books have been removed from shelves in recent years. “This is the antithesis of all the states that ban books,” Murphy remarked. He expressed pride in the legislation but also pointed out the growing disparity in policies across the country, stating, “It truly matters where you live.”

The newly signed law dictates that both public and school libraries cannot limit access to books based on the author’s background, the origins of the material, or its content, even if some find it objectionable. However, there is allowance for restrictions on books that are deemed “developmentally inappropriate” for specific age groups. Additionally, local school boards and public library governing bodies are now required to establish clear policies for the curation and potential removal of library materials, ensuring that there is a structured process to address any concerns regarding certain items.

This legislation comes amid a startling rise in challenges against books, with the American Library Association reporting that over 4,200 titles faced scrutiny in 2023, a significant increase from the previous year’s nearly 2,600 challenges. Many of the contested works from this year explore themes related to LGBTQ+ identities and racial issues. The severity of book restrictions in various states has left librarians and educators apprehensive about the possibility of lawsuits, severe fines, or even jail time for distributing literature deemed inappropriate by some. In the following year, more than 15 states are anticipated to consider new laws that could impose daunting penalties on libraries or their staff.

Parents and activists advocating for book bans argue that some literature is too explicit and unsuitable for younger audiences. Groups like Moms for Liberty contend that parents should have greater influence over the reading materials accessible to their children.

In contrast, librarians have applauded the passage of this protective measure. Karen Grant, the president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, stated that the law affirms the professionalism of librarians while establishing libraries as vital sources of information. “This bill will safeguard the intellectual freedom of students while emphasizing that school libraries are places for voluntary inquiry, essential for students’ growth and development,” Grant noted.

Additionally, Martha Hickson, a retired librarian, shared her personal experiences regarding the scrutiny her collections faced during a school board meeting in 2021. She recalled the accusations of her books harboring inappropriate content, which she found distressing. Upon the bill’s signing, Hickson expressed her joy at the new legislation, describing it as a welcome relief after enduring years of harassment. “I’m thrilled. After more than three years of harassment, this legislation brings relief to readers and librarians,” she said.

The law is slated to be implemented in a year; however, the state’s education commissioner and state librarian have the discretion to start setting up the necessary processes sooner.