Martine Fiske | Oppose HB1256

I am writing to express my opposition to HB 1256, which seeks to repeal RSA 201-A:10, VII empowering the state librarian to award scholarships to qualified individuals attending graduate library schools accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). Eliminating this authority will undermine the professional standards of our state’s libraries of all kinds and diminish the quality of service provided to New Hampshire citizens and students. This bill will reduce educational opportunities and professional standards. The library profession is becoming increasingly complex, requiring expertise in information technology, data management, and community literacy. By removing these scholarships, the state is effectively creating financial barriers and de-professionalizing the library field. Graduate education is expensive. These scholarships provide a vital pathway for talented Granite Staters who wish to serve their communities but may be deterred by the high cost of a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree. Professional accreditation ensures that librarians are trained in the ethical handling of information and the management of public resources. Reducing support for this training leads to a workforce that is less equipped to handle the evolving needs of a digital society. HB 1256 is an attack on the library and education professions based on disinformation. It is difficult to view HB 1256 in isolation from the broader wave of partisan attempts to undermine public education and libraries. This bill appears to be rooted in inaccurate beliefs and censorship motives. Proponents of such measures often rely on the false narrative that professional librarians are "indoctrinating" the public. In reality, trained librarians are the frontline defenders of intellectual freedom and balanced collections. By targeting the professional pipeline, this bill aligns with efforts to bypass local control and censor materials. Removing the state's role in professional development makes it harder for libraries to maintain the gold standard of service that protects a citizen’s right to read without government interference. HB 1256 will have a negative impact on New Hampshire citizens. Libraries bridge the digital divide. When we weaken the profession, we weaken the services that citizens rely on which causes economic impacts, particularly in rural areas. Professional librarians assist with job searches, small business research, and digital literacy—critical drivers of New Hampshire’s economy. In many NH towns, the library is the only source of high-speed internet and reliable information. We need highly trained professionals to manage these hubs effectively. HB 1256 offers no benefit to the taxpayers of New Hampshire; instead, it erodes the infrastructure of our communities. I urge the committee to vote Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on this harmful bill and continue supporting the professional development of those who keep our state informed and free.