Limitations start today for children’s access to certain books under Missouri’s new library rule

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to remove an incorrect reference to criminal penalties.

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ.)

Children's access to certain books could be limited as Missouri's new library rules take effect Tuesday.

This new rule will require libraries to change certain policies in order to receive state funding. 

The new policy stops libraries from displaying or giving books to children which are deemed inappropriate. Instead, the rule will allow parents to decide what is and isn't age-appropriate for their children. 

It will also require libraries to develop and publish policies on certain topics including how librarians purchase and select children's materials. That written policy by the Secretary of State will also highlight what is appropriate for different age groups. 

Additional library changes:

• Ban on purchasing materials including child pornography
• Prohibits display of inappropriate materials in children's sections of the library
• A written policy that allows parents to challenge whether materials or displays are age appropriate

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft says this rule is a simple way for parents to be more involved with raising their children.