BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Alabama Public Library Service board voted Friday to begin restricting access to books and resources discussing gender identity and sexual orientation in children’s and teen sections, following guidance rolled out by presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.
The decision directs state officials to begin updating Alabama’s library administrative code, prompting a process that could remove material perceived as promoting “gender ideology”—a term used by Trump and some conservatives to refer to information acknowledging more than two genders or affirming LGBTQ+ identities. Library administrators across the state were warned that their eligibility for millions in federal funds could be jeopardized if they fail to comply with these new directives.
The policy mirrors talking points and priorities advanced by Trump, who in March signed a policy statement calling for a federal ban on the use of funds for “the promotion of gender ideology” in public institutions serving children. While the ruling does not enact an immediate ban, it sets in motion a formal process, including at least a 45-day public comment period, before any changes take effect.
In recent months, Alabama libraries—already battered by threats and pressure campaigns over LGBTQ+ materials—could now see such resources vanish from view entirely for children and teens. Library supporters and free speech advocates have denounced the move as censorship and an attack on individual rights, noting that Republicans once prided themselves as champions of liberty and limited government.
The Alabama ACLU and several library organizations have signaled that the rulemaking could face legal challenges for violating constitutional rights and further stigmatizing transgender youth. National civil liberties groups say the clampdown would deprive young people of access to information and support.
For now, local librarians and families await clarity as the state moves forward with the rulemaking process. The public comment period is expected to open within weeks, with a final vote anticipated later this year.