YORK COUNTY, S.C. — The York County Library Board is reviewing a proposal to relocate certain books from children’s and teen sections into the adult collection. The policy targets materials that include themes of gender identity, gender transitioning, and related medical or social concepts.
Under the proposed guidelines:
- Books for children aged 0–12 that depict or discuss gender identity, pronoun use, clothing choices inconsistent with biological sex, or gender transitioning—either social or medical—would be moved to the Parenting and Early Childhood section within the adult collection.
- Books for teens aged 13–17 involving characters who have transitioned or are transitioning would be placed in the adult section. This includes books with themes of social transitioning (such as name or pronoun changes) and physical changes (such as hormone use).
The changes do not constitute a ban, and the books would still be accessible to the public. However, the books would only be available in the adult section and parents would need to check the books out for their children.
The proposed policy mirrors a similar measure enacted by the Greenville County Library System, which is currently facing legal challenges. In that case, critics argue the relocation of LGBTQ+-themed books restricts access and represents viewpoint discrimination. Legal advocacy groups have raised concerns that York County could face similar challenges if the policy is implemented.
The proposal was introduced during a policy committee meeting on June 9. The next meeting is scheduled for June 24 at 1 p.m. at the Lake Wylie Library branch, where the board is expected to continue its review of the proposed changes. A final decision has not yet been made.
The proposed changes are shown below:
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