Tennessee library board votes to pull transgender-themed books from shelves

• The Rutherford County Library System Board voted 5-3 to remove books addressing transgender issues from its shelves, citing concerns about protecting children. Some attendees supported the decision, while others opposed it, questioning the use of the term “transgenderism.”
• Board member Cody York introduced the measure to address gender identity struggles among children, believing it’s the board’s responsibility to address these issues rather than promote them.
• The new resolution aligns with a state law requiring the removal of books with explicit content or violence.

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On Monday night, March 17, the Rutherford County Library System Board in Tennessee, voted to remove books containing transgender issues from its shelves. In a 5-3 vote before a packed audience, the board approved a resolution to eliminate material that encourages, promotes or normalizes “transgenderism” in children within the Tennessee community.

One member who voted against the resolution cited concerns about the possibility the decision is unconstitutional. 

Rutherford County Library System board meeting

While some attendees in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, applauded the decision, others voiced their opposition. Ten speakers addressed the board. Four of the speakers were in favor, while the six others were against.

One speaker criticized the use of the term “transgenderism,” calling it derogatory and inappropriate as a definition.

Cody York, a board member and the member who introduced the measure, claimed it is meant to protect children.

York explained that many kids in the community are struggling with gender identity and confusion. He said it’s the board’s responsibility to address the root cause rather than promote it.

The new resolution also established a policy for librarians across the county. When a book discussing transgender ideology is found, it must be submitted to the board for review to decide whether it should remain in the collection.

Board recently banned gender dysphoria book

In a previous meeting, the board also moved to remove “Me & My Dysphoria Monster,” a children’s book addressing gender dysphoria.

The story follows Nisha, whose dysphoria intensifies when misidentified as a boy or when she hides her true gender identity. However, after meeting Jack, a trans man, Nisha learns ways to manage and reduce her dysphoria.

Tennessee book ban in school libraries

The Rutherford County Board’s new resolution mirrors a law passed by Tennessee lawmakers to ban books with sexually explicit content or violence. The law went into effect in July 2024. It requires libraries to remove these books from their collections and prevent access for students in grades K-12.

As of 2024, over 1,100 books have been banned, including “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison and “Wacky Wednesday” by Dr. Seuss.