York County Library Board Delays Vote on Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Book Policy

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — A heated York County Library board meeting concluded Thursday without a decision on a proposed book policy that could relocate LGBTQ+ content from children's and teen sections to adult sections. The policy, which mirrors one currently facing an ACLU lawsuit in Greenville County, sparked strong public opposition.

Following a public comment session where most speakers voiced concerns, the board met privately with the county attorney. Upon returning, members took no action and offered no updates on the controversial proposal, moving instead to other business.

Advocacy group Support York County Libraries criticized the board's lack of transparency, noting that explicit details of the proposal remain hidden from the public. Stephanie Griffith, a member of the group, stated that discussions have been minimal and opaque since residents raised concerns about the Greenville lawsuit, which alleges the policy violates the First Amendment. Lacey Layne, also with Support York County Libraries, described the secrecy as "intentional" and "very frustrating" for community members.

Emails obtained by The Herald revealed that the York County GOP and Moms for Liberty chapter had urged their members to attend the meeting in support of the changes. While the reason for the delayed vote remains unclear, Layne and Griffith pointed to the board's recent decision to purchase additional liability insurance as a potential sign of anticipated legal challenges. A board member was previously told that such insurance was needed to protect against potential lawsuits and legal fees.