Leadership is crucial, though it can be a bit less apparent, especially when considering recent developments in the Alabama Public Library System. While many public institutions have adopted a more progressive approach, Alabama is fortunate to have leaders like John Wahl, who are dedicated to upholding our values and protecting our youth.

As the chairman of the APLS committee, Wahl has taken a strong stand in advocating for the future of Alabama libraries, advocating for sound judgment.

As a parent of a child who loves reading—and as someone who has authored works myself—the library has always held significant importance in my life. I really recognize how vital it is for the community, particularly for children, students, and seniors seeking educational resources and opportunities.

This is why it’s so vital that Alabama libraries concentrate on serving our population, rather than pushing a divisive social narrative.

A recent update to the APLS code made it clear that the interests of Alabamians come first by mandating the relocation of sexually explicit and inappropriate books out of the youth sections of libraries. The board didn’t take this lightly; they held a 90-day period for public input followed by a six-hour hearing, receiving 6,475 letters from across the state.

The response was overwhelmingly in favor of either supporting these changes or enhancing protection for children.

After careful deliberation, the APLS committee sided with the people of Alabama, taking a stand against the agenda promoted by the American Library Association, which has been criticized as Marxist. This decision was a significant triumph for common sense and wouldn’t have been achievable without Wahl’s leadership.

The current APLS Board has consistently aimed to ensure that all families feel welcomed in libraries and that these institutions remain vital and beneficial to the community.

Sustainable funding remains a primary concern for APLS; you see, no matter how dedicated a librarian is or how important a program may be, libraries can’t succeed without adequate resources.

Alabama libraries benefit from Chair Wahl’s efforts to secure financial support. Being involved in both the APLS Committee and the Etois County Library Committee, I can’t help but think that this critical issue has been overlooked by both the media and many within the library sector.

After funding for Alabama libraries was cut last year due to lost trust in the Direction Library from state legislative members, things began to stabilize after the new code was implemented and Wahl became chairman of the APLS board.

The current education budget guarantees exchange funds for essential grants should the Alabama State Library lose federal aid. In contrast, many state library committees across the nation have not reached this level of financial security for their public libraries.

Changes at APLS extend beyond merely securing funding. We also paid attention to our local libraries’ feedback regarding federal grant allocation. Where they identified areas for improvement, the APLS committee acted without hesitation—a degree of responsiveness that’s rather rare in government, which underscores why Wahl’s leadership should be highly appreciated by libraries.

There have been noticeable strides towards transparency over recent months. The APLS board has been livestreaming meetings, posting minutes online, and sharing agendas ahead of time, all efforts aimed at fostering a culture of trust that encourages engagement with the library system.

Those who aim to sow confusion may only succeed in harming the local library. Some have argued that the term “sexually explicit” is subjective, while others have claimed that such materials should still be accessible in youth sections.

However, following the code changes, the validity of these arguments falls apart when you consider the precise legal definitions provided to all Alabama libraries. This definition mirrors those in 18 USC §2256 and Alabama Code §13A-12-200.1 and includes specifics about what constitutes sexually explicit content.

1. Sexual intercourse involving any gender, detailing specific organs and acts.
2. Sexual arousal;
3. Exhibition of nudity;
4. Bestiality;
5. Masturbation;
6. Sadistic or masochistic acts;
7. Lewdly displaying anal, genital, or pubic areas, especially when appealing to minors over 17.

The standards are explicit. Alabama libraries have clear guidelines on adhering to state code and protecting their most innocent community members. It’s time to prioritize the people of Alabama and advance together in support of the values we aim to represent.

Some factions, both left and right, have tried to twist the facts and discredit Chairman Wahl and the library board. Yet, the truth lies in how, far from harming libraries, these new policies and code adjustments have actually rebuilt public trust.

This has even unlocked new fundraising possibilities, as more families feel welcomed, allowing for open dialogue on key issues while reaffirming that Alabama libraries are committed to serving all residents responsibly.

Many might recognize John Wahl’s national profile—as a butterfly farmer or as the chair of the Alabama Republican Party. He also holds a vice-chair position in the Republican National Committee for the Southern Region. However, I believe his contributions as chairman of the APLS deserve special acknowledgment.

Thanks to his national connections, unyielding work ethic, and genuine love for Alabama, our libraries stand strengthened, safeguarded, and better funded. Under his stewardship, the APLS board is committed to preserving the true mission of public libraries: serving all residents, especially children, in a safe and welcoming environment devoid of inappropriate and sexually explicit content.