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Alberta –- The Library Association of Alberta (LAA) is raising serious concerns about Bill 28, warning that the proposed legislation is rooted in misinformation, increases risks for frontline staff, creates new barriers to information, and violates privacy rights of citizens.

Library workers across Alberta are deeply concerned about the direction this legislation takes. It is not grounded in evidence, does not reflect how libraries operate, and will have real consequences for both staff and the public.

Misinformation puts library workers at risk
Public libraries in Alberta do not collect or distribute illegal, obscene, or pornographic materials. Collections are developed by trained professionals using established policies, industry standards, and community-informed processes. We intentionally and thoughtfully consider age appropriateness in everything we do—from the materials we select, to how we support families, to how we design welcoming spaces for children and youth.

When library collections are falsely described as ‘pornographic,’ it doesn’t just get it wrong—it makes library workers targets. This is misinformation, plain and simple. It misrepresents our work and undermines public trust in institutions people rely on every day.

Staff across the province are already experiencing the impacts of this rhetoric. Library workers are fielding online and in-person accusations that falsely claim we are endangering the very children and families at the core of our work. This is no longer theoretical. It is changing the tone of our workplaces and putting staff in the position of defending our professionalism in ways we never should have to.

Library workers support families and children
Library workers are trained professionals who care deeply about intellectual freedom, community well-being, and supporting families in navigating information. We help parents and caregivers make informed choices every day. Our work is about connecting children and families with the age-appropriate resources they need—not restricting them.

To suggest that library workers are acting against the interests of children is not just inaccurate—it is deeply hurtful and profoundly disappointing. It undermines the integrity of a profession grounded in care, responsibility, and a commitment to supporting children and families.

Censorship and barriers to access
Bill 28 introduces censorship and undermines equitable access to information. Libraries are designed to be welcoming, low-barrier spaces where Albertans can seek information without fear, stigma, or judgment. When access to materials requires additional permissions or scrutiny, it creates barriers, violates patron privacy, and discourages people from seeking the information they need.

Call to Action
The Library Association of Alberta calls on the Government of Alberta to:
● Publicly correct misinformation about library collections
● Engage meaningfully with the library sector before proceeding with legislative changes
● Remove provisions that introduce censorship and restrict access to information
● Provide robust evidence to justify legislative intervention
● Commit appropriate funding and implementation planning for any changes

At its core, this is about trust. Albertans trust their libraries and the professionals who run them. We are asking the government to do the same. Public libraries play a vital role in supporting access to information, lifelong learning, and community connection. The LAA remains committed to ensuring these services remain accessible, safe, and responsive to the needs of all Albertans.

About the Library Association of Alberta
The Library Association of Alberta (LAA) is the provincial voice for library workers and advocates for equitable access to information, strong public library services, and intellectual freedom across Alberta. LAA supports its members through professional development, leadership, and collaboration, and works to ensure libraries remain welcoming, inclusive spaces that serve the needs of all Albertans.