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Last week, the Rutherford County steering committee met to discuss banning all books that may violate the new ordinance, which resulted in public backlash. “When have the people who ban books ever been the good guys?” local activist Keri Lambert exclaimed at the meeting last week.
Four books that possess LGBTQ themes have been removed under the new rule. These include, "Flamer, Let's Talk About It", Queerfully and Wonderfully Made", and "This book is Gay."
The board also made changes to the library card system, which now categorizes books into certain age groups. The new mechanic that will go into effect next year will ensure children and teens are only able to check out books that correlate with their age group, unless they are given parental permission.
The new regulations regarding books has worried library director Rita Shacklett who in August voiced concerns about children having access to books they need for class. According to her, many books considered classics in high school English, like "To Kill a Mockingbird," is now considered an adult book, according to The New Republic.
The county steering committee hasn't taken aim at books like "A Song of Ice and Fire series," which depicts multiple instances of heterosexual sexual conduct. Murfreesboro's new ordinance is a small piece of a larger effort to target LGBTQ rights in Tennessee, which was the first state to attempt a ban on drag shows. The law was overturned in court.
In March, Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill, allowing people the right to refuse to perform a marriage if they disagree with the couple's sexual orientation. The bill was introduced to the Senate but deferred until next year.
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