Call to Restore Funding for Fairhope Public Library

The author of *America’s Most Bank Books* is urging Alabama Public Library Services (APLS) to reinstate funding for the Fairhope Public Library and to reject new rules that would label positive depictions of transgender stories as inappropriate for young readers.

“The proposed changes by the APLS committee to remove specific books from the Younger Readers section and to restrict future acquisitions are a form of censorship,” Patricia McCormick, known for her acclaimed young adult novel *Sold*, stated. “It feels like coercion, and it sends a message to young people—especially those who may already feel marginalized—that their stories aren’t welcome.”

*Sold*, which addresses the issue of young teens being sold into sexual slavery, has been challenged at the Fairhope Public Library. The board decided to keep *Sold* and other contested titles in the teen section, leading the APLS committee to cut funding.

John Wahl, a leading Republican and chairman of APLS, acknowledged the literary merit of *Sold*, but questioned its suitability for younger audiences. He specifically avoided commenting on whether the book violates state regulations.

The concern is that the book could be considered to violate state code when paired with APLS’s earlier definition of “sexually explicit,” which could label any book discussing sex—or even containing nudity—as inappropriate for young readers and subject to removal from library shelves.

“This strategy is punitive, and I strongly oppose it, as it undermines the intellectual exploration typically encouraged by libraries,” McCormick remarked. “The Fairhope library is withholding funds because they declined to relocate young adult books, including *Sold*, from the teen section. This doesn’t shield families; it punishes communities that value intellectual freedom.”

“I genuinely and cautiously implore Fairhope to restore funding and reject this amendment. Every child should have access to a library that reflects their identity and allows them to explore freely and feel accepted.”

McCormick is scheduled to visit the Fairhope Public Library later this month for a speaking engagement on October 16th at 6 PM.

Elizabeth Williams, leader of Alabama’s Baldwin County Chapter for Free to Lead Alabama, expressed gratitude to McCormick for her advocacy on behalf of the library.

“This statement comes just as we reflect on Banned Books Week, which was last week when public comments regarding the proposed amendment could be submitted to APLS. This amendment aims to limit the availability of books for those under 18 or those that actively depict individuals outside the traditional gender binary,” Williams noted.