A new law set to take effect in South Dakota on Jan. 1, 2025, is prompting public and school libraries to adjust policies aimed at restricting minors’ access to obscene materials. House Bill 1197, passed earlier this year, mandates that libraries take specific steps to limit access to such materials and publicly share their policies.
The Britton Public Library recently held public meetings to explain the law and outline its response. Library Director Sonya Lang emphasized the importance of parental oversight in guiding children’s use of library resources.
“Parents or adult caregivers must assume responsibility for their children’s access to and use of library resources,” Lang said. “They are expected to monitor and supervise children’s use of the library’s resources, including the Internet, in selecting material that is consistent with personal and family values.”
Under HB 1197, all public libraries in South Dakota must:
-Equip public access computers with software that limits minors’ ability to access obscene materials, as defined by state law.
-Alternatively, purchase internet services from providers that offer filtering options.
-Develop and implement a local policy restricting minors’ access to obscene materials by Jan. 1, 2025.
-Publish the policy annually, either on the official website of the political subdivision overseeing the library or in a local legal newspaper.
The Britton Public Library is already using browsing software to block access to content classified as obscene, including child pornography and materials harmful to minors. Lang explained that these measures align with the library’s mission to balance access to information with community standards.
To comply with the law, the Britton Public Library is introducing an “Age-Appropriate Selection” form, which parents or caregivers must complete for each child in their household. The form allows caregivers to specify which sections of the library—such as the adult section, young adult section, or Libby app—are appropriate for their children. The form also includes a disclaimer stating that library staff are not responsible for monitoring children’s material selections.
“If a caregiver does not complete and return the form, the library is free from liability concerning all materials,” Lang said, adding that the library staff is available to assist patrons with questions.
Lang reiterated the library’s commitment to providing free and equal access to constitutionally protected materials while supporting families’ rights to guide their children’s library use.
“The Britton Public Library encourages caregivers to help their children choose items that match their own family’s values,” Lang said. “Like adults, children and teenagers have the right to seek and receive the information that they choose. It is the right and responsibility of caregivers to guide their own family’s library use, while allowing other caregivers to do the same.”
The library encourages patrons with questions to visit or contact the staff for more information.
