Alberta libraries raise affordability concerns over passage of Bill 28

The Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries is against the provincial government's Bill 28, which puts restrictions on some library materials. (Pexels/cottonbro studio)

Public libraries in Alberta say a new bill passed by the government is unnecessary.

The Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries says Bill 28 may even force some libraries to close.

The group says libraries can’t afford to build separate spaces to ensure children don’t read adult material.

The province has said it won’t fund the cost of infrastructure changes and additional staffing necessary to fulfill the new rules set out in Bill 28, including age verification and limiting access to adult materials.

“Libraries are already struggling to maintain operations without other additional burdens being placed on them related to new legislative compliance,” said Ron Sheppard, director of Parkland Regional Library System in a media release. “Without additional funding to implement Bill 28, libraries may be forced to reduce, or potentially eliminate, library services.”

It says they already have policies to organize collections in age appropriate ways.

The librarians also said the UCP government never consulted with them about the changes.

They added that they already have established policies that support parents, promote age-appropriate access and maintain confidence in public institutions -- without needing to pass legislation.

“Prior to Bill 28, local library boards set policies and guidelines that reflect community needs and values,” said Sheppard. “We are very concerned that Bill 28 allows local governance to be overridden by the minister of the day. This is a significant shift, and it’s very troubling.”

Bill 28 has already passed third reading in the legislature.