The Sioux Center Public Library has paused the rollout of a newly approved library card procedure after the State Library of Iowa warned the change could jeopardize the library’s accreditation.
The decision came during the Sioux Center Library Board’s meeting Monday night (January 12), where board members discussed communication from the state indicating the proposed tiered card system could violate accreditation standards related to access based on age.
Background
The tiered card system was approved by the board in December, following months of community discussion related to concerns over youth access to certain library materials. Under the proposal, parents could voluntarily opt their children into a more restricted library card that would limit access to some materials.
Library Director Becky Bilby told the board she had reached out to Brenda Hall, the State Librarian, for guidance before implementation, but did not receive a response before the board moved forward. Hall later contacted the library and warned that the proposed change could jeopardize Sioux Center’s accreditation.
Bilby said she followed up with the state to clarify that the card system would be voluntary and parent-driven, but the issue remains under review.
What Accreditation Means
Library accreditation in Iowa is overseen by the State Library and affects more than recognition. According to Bilby, Sioux Center has maintained top-tier accreditation for decades.
Accreditation is tied to direct state aid — around $20,000 this year — along with eligibility for certain grants and access to statewide professional resources.
Board Discussion and Decision to Pause
During the discussion, board members weighed the importance of maintaining accreditation while also responding to parental concerns raised over the past several months.
During that discussion, Library Board President Andrew Geleynse said the board wanted to understand better the implications of moving forward.
After discussion, all library board members agreed to pause implementation of the new procedure until further guidance is received from the state.
Board member Teri Hubbard raised questions during the discussion about access to materials and how books are categorized within the library.
Public Comments
Public comment at the beginning of the meeting reflected a wide range of viewpoints. Some speakers urged the board to adopt stronger safeguards to limit minors’ access to sexually explicit material, often framing their comments around parental responsibility, community values, or religious convictions. Others spoke in support of the library and its staff, emphasizing the importance of trust in librarians, parental oversight, and the library’s role as a shared public resource.
What’s Next
Bilby said she will continue discussions with the State Library to determine whether any flexibility exists within accreditation standards. The board indicated it may revisit the issue once additional guidance is received.
For now, the tiered card system remains on hold.
