Alberta sets January 1 deadline for libraries to restrict youth access to sexually explicit materials

Alberta libraries have until January 1 to implement new policies restricting access to materials containing sexually explicit images for anyone under 16, following legislative changes passed in May.

The updated Libraries Act requires library boards to restrict minors' access to books, periodicals, comics and graphic novels, films, TV programs, and video games containing visual depictions of sexual acts, unless a parent or guardian authorizes access. Boards must also determine which materials should be restricted, how to regulate access, and where to store them separately from other resources.

Library boards have the same deadline to establish how to verify a person's age and whether a parent or guardian has authorized access. They must also develop policies about issuing library cards to people under 16 and allowing them to use library computers to access the internet or play video games. Boards are required to consider how the same age restrictions apply to digital resources like e-books.

The Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries, along with the Calgary and Edmonton public libraries, said they are still reviewing the impact of the restrictions. Jack Alarie, press secretary for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, said no content will be removed from libraries. "It is reasonable that there be accountability for public institutions that are governed by provincial statute and funded by tax dollars," he said.

Rob Miyashiro, Alberta NDP's shadow minister for municipal affairs, said the new rules will likely cost libraries more money and put extra stress on their staff, particularly small libraries with only a couple of employees. "The libraries were never asking for this," Miyashiro said. "In fact, the vast majority of public libraries in Alberta already had policies and practices that did what this government wants as an outcome."