MANAGEMENT OF PUBLIC SCHOOL LIBRARIES

SB 65 requires New Mexico school districts (including charter schools) to create written policies for managing public school libraries, ensuring fair access to books and materials. It prohibits schools from removing library resources based on protected characteristics like race, gender, or sexual orientation, and mandates a strict process for any removal requests - including requiring written decisions, limiting removals to once every two years, and reviewing entire resources, not just parts. School librarians and staff are protected from retaliation for following these policies or refusing to remove materials before a formal decision is made. This bill directly affects school districts, library staff, and students/parents who may request changes to library collections.