Huntsville, Alabama, September 27, 2025
News Summary
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library has chosen to keep its children and young adult books that promote transgender ideology, despite proposed censorship policies. An ongoing investigation has revealed conflicts with these policies, which have seen significant community support for maintaining access to diverse literature. Key titles include ‘Born Ready’ and ‘Being Jazz’, with strong opposition to censorship voiced at public meetings. While amendments to the APLS code addressing gender ideology are under consideration, no current mandates exist against these books.
Huntsville, Alabama – The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library (HMCPL) has decided to retain books that promote transgender ideology in its children and young adult collections, despite ongoing discussions about censorship policies. An investigation revealed that several titles in these areas are at odds with proposed policy updates from the Alabama Public Library Service (APLS).
Books available in the children’s collection that reference transgenderism include “Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope” by Jodie Patterson, which discusses the life of Patterson’s transgender son, and “Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story about Gender and Friendship” by Jessica Walton, inspired by Walton’s experience with her father transitioning. Other books include “Sparkle Boy” by Leslea Newman, which focuses on gender identity, and “Pink, Blue, and You: Questions for Kids about Gender Stereotypes” by Elise Gravel. Additionally, “The Antiracist Kid: A Book about Identity, Justice, and Activism” by Tiffany Jewell also addresses these issues.
In the young teen section, titles like “Being Jazz: My Life as a Transgender Teen” by Jazz Jennings highlight transgender experiences and ideals. The library also provides access to e-books on transgender issues through the Hoopla app for library cardholders.
Currently, there are no mandates in Alabama prohibiting transgender-related books in children’s library sections. Proposed amendments to the APLS code, which address gender ideology in library collections, are under consideration. Recent public comments at an HMCPL meeting indicated significant community support for maintaining access to these materials; out of ten speakers, seven voiced opposition to censorship.
Critics of book censorship argue that libraries serve essential roles for marginalized communities. They shared personal accounts illustrating the negative impact of limited access to diverse materials. Conversely, three speakers at the same meeting expressed a desire for restrictions on certain children’s books, claiming that those featuring transgender individuals promote an agenda.
A board member at the meeting, Dr. Marisa Allison, underscored concerns regarding the mental health of queer youth, highlighting that transgender individuals face higher suicide rates due to societal pressures. Meanwhile, the APLS plans to hold a meeting to discuss proposed guidelines limiting “Gender Ideology” in library collections.
The ongoing discourse surrounding library collections in Alabama has prompted certain books to be reclassified as adult materials, following challenges from conservative groups. Some community members are urging local libraries to seek independent funding to avoid restrictions imposed by the state regarding content.
As anxiety about the future availability of LGBTQ+ materials in libraries persists, the influence of conservative advocacy groups, such as Moms for Liberty, continues to fuel calls for the removal of LGBTQ+ themed books from public collections.
Key Titles Related to Transgender Themes
- “Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope” by Jodie Patterson
- “Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story about Gender and Friendship” by Jessica Walton
- “Sparkle Boy” by Leslea Newman
- “Pink, Blue, and You: Questions for Kids about Gender Stereotypes” by Elise Gravel
- “The Antiracist Kid: A Book about Identity, Justice, and Activism” by Tiffany Jewell
- “Being Jazz: My Life as a Transgender Teen” by Jazz Jennings
Current Status of Transgender Literature in Alabama Libraries
- No existing mandates against transgender-related books in children’s sections.
- Proposed APLS guidelines addressing “Gender Ideology” in library collections.
- Community support for maintaining access to LGBTQ+ materials is strong, despite opposition from some groups.
Community Actions and Responses
- Public support demonstrated through speakers at HMCPL meetings.
- Concerns raised about mental health implications for queer youth due to censorship.
- Calls for libraries to seek independent funding to maintain diverse collections.
FAQ
What decision has the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library made regarding transgender-themed books?
The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library continues to include books that promote transgender ideology in its children and young adult collections.
What are some examples of books available in the children’s collection?
Books in the children’s area that reference transgenderism include “Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope,” “Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story about Gender and Friendship,” “Sparkle Boy,” “Pink, Blue, and You,” and “The Antiracist Kid.”
Is there any mandate against transgender-related books in Alabama?
There are currently no mandates against transgender-related books in Alabama children’s library sections despite proposed code amendments addressing gender ideology.
What is the community’s response to the preservation of these books?
Public comments at a recent HMCPL meeting showed significant community support for maintaining access to these materials, with ten people speaking—seven opposing censorship.
What upcoming meeting will address the issue of transgender literature in libraries?
The Alabama Public Library Service’s upcoming meeting will address guidelines restricting “Gender Ideology” in library collections.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Library Decision | Retaining transgender-themed books in children and young adult collections. |
| Key Titles | Includes books like “Born Ready” and “Being Jazz”. |
| Mandates | No current mandates against such books in Alabama. |
| Community Support | Support shown at HMCPL meetings, with opponents of censorship speaking out. |
| APLS Meeting | Upcoming meeting to discuss guidelines on “Gender Ideology”. |
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Additional Resources
- 1819 News: Huntsville-Madison County Public Library Policy
- AL.com: Book Battle in Alabama
- Alabama Reporter: Huntsville Library Updates Policy
- AL.com: Library Leader on Censorship
- Wikipedia: Transgender Literature
- Google Search: Transgender Literature in Libraries
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
