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A new legislative push in Texas could significantly change how public libraries operate. House Bill 2572, filed by State Rep. Brian Harrison (R-Midlothian), seeks to prohibit public libraries—including school libraries—from using taxpayer funds to support the American Library Association (ALA). If enacted, Texas libraries would no longer be able to fund ALA memberships, attend ALA-sponsored conferences, or engage in financial transactions that benefit the organization.
The bill amends Chapter 441 of the Texas Government Code and would take effect September 1, 2025, ensuring that no new taxpayer dollars are directed to the ALA beyond that date—except for pre-existing contractual obligations.
The Rationale Behind the Legislation
HB 2572 is part of a broader conservative effort to remove national ideological influences from public institutions. Supporters argue that the ALA promotes policies that clash with Texas values—particularly in areas like book selection, controversial materials in libraries, and parental rights in education.
Harrison has been vocal in his belief that libraries should be accountable to local taxpayers, not an out-of-state organization pushing progressive agendas. His legislation aims to ensure that library policies remain locally controlled and aligned with community standards.
Many concerns have been raised that the ALA has become a political advocacy group rather than a neutral professional organization. Critics point to its past leadership, such as former ALA President Emily Drabinski, who openly described herself as a “Marxist” and promoted far-left ideology. Texas lawmakers pushing HB 2572 argue that taxpayer dollars should not fund an organization that advocates for ideological positions misaligned with the majority of Texans.
Opposition: A Blow to Professional Development?
Not everyone supports the effort to sever ties with the ALA. Opponents—primarily librarians and education advocates—argue that the ALA provides essential resources for library management, professional training, and intellectual freedom guidance. Without ALA support, some worry that libraries will struggle to access best practices, accreditation standards, and a national professional network.
Additionally, some critics question whether the bill could create operational challenges for libraries that rely on ALA-recommended policies for material selection and collection management. They argue that restricting public libraries from professional organizations could weaken their ability to serve communities effectively.
A National Trend: Other States Restricting ALA Influence
Texas is not alone in rethinking its relationship with the ALA. The Montana State Library Commission formally cut ties with the ALA in 2023, citing concerns over ideological bias. Missouri and Florida lawmakers have also introduced measures to restrict library content and reduce ALA influence over public institutions.
The movement to separate state-funded institutions from national organizations reflects a larger conservative push to reassert local control and prevent taxpayer money from funding organizations seen as promoting political agendas.
What’s Next for HB 2572?
As the Texas Legislature takes up HB 2572, the debate will likely intensify. The bill aligns with broader efforts to reshape public education, libraries, and other taxpayer-funded institutions to better reflect local community values rather than national or international directives.
With Texans increasingly engaged in fights over education, free speech, and public policy, the decision on whether to sever ties with the ALA will be closely watched nationwide. If passed, HB 2572 could set a precedent for other states to follow.
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