Tennessee’s Secretary of State, Tre Hargett, expressed skepticism that any children’s books will be removed from public libraries following a statewide review he initiated. In October 2023, Hargett sent a letter to all 181 public libraries in the state, requesting an “immediate age-appropriateness review” of materials in their juvenile sections. This request aligns with Tennessee’s recently enacted “age-appropriate law” and an Executive Order from former President Donald Trump addressing “gender ideology extremism.”
The letter has sparked concerns among librarians, many of whom fear it could lead to widespread removals similar to those witnessed in some school libraries across Tennessee. Questions about what constitutes “age-appropriate” emerged, particularly in relation to materials featuring “excess violence” or “descriptions or depictions of sexual excitement.”
Hargett stated on the show Inside Politics that the primary goal is to ensure that libraries remain safe spaces for children and their families. As of now, approximately half of the libraries have submitted their reports, which are due next week. While Hargett acknowledged that some books may be relocated from children’s sections, he does not anticipate any outright removals.
During the interview, Hargett highlighted specific titles that libraries identified as unsuitable for younger audiences. These include books addressing topics such as domestic violence and drug understanding, which he indicated would be moved to adult sections. Notably, he mentioned the children’s book Fred Gets Dressed, which centers on an 11-year-old boy experimenting with clothing. Hargett noted that libraries have informed his office that they consider the book appropriate for their collections.
“The decision ultimately lies with the county library boards,” Hargett explained. His office plays a supportive role by distributing federal grants but does not exert control over library decisions. When asked whether funding could be withheld from libraries that do not comply with the review, Hargett firmly stated, “We have no intention of withholding money from any library, zero intention of withholding money from a library.”
His comments come in light of a recent decision by Rutherford County to temporarily close its libraries for a week, a move that surprised Hargett. He clarified that his office’s request for a review was not mandatory. “We asked these libraries to do this. We can’t force them to do it. I guess technically we could, but we asked them. We said please twice,” he remarked, emphasizing that the request was not an order.
Librarians across the state may find Hargett’s stance surprising, particularly those who have been involved in the review process. The full interview with the Secretary of State is available on NewsChannel 5 Plus, airing at 19:00 on Fridays and as a podcast titled “Inside Politics Nashville,” accessible on various platforms.
