Ellen Adams

This bill strips authority from independent library trustees (and allows town governing bodies to take direct control of public libraries. Libraries are intentionally governed independently so they can provide free and equal access to information without political interference.This bill allows municipal takeover of public library governance. This bill also reduces trustees from governing authorities to advisory roles. Library trustees safeguard intellectual freedom, ensure responsible stewardship of public and donated funds, and provide stability beyond shifting political priorities. Weakening their authority risks politicizing library operations, collections, and services meant to serve the entire community—not those in power. Public libraries depend on independence, stability, and public trust. HB 1214 threatens all three.