SB 598

This bill requires public libraries to develop and implement a policy under

which the custodial parent or guardian of a child who is under the age of 16 is notified

of each document or material the child checks out from a public library as soon as is

practicable, but no later than 24 hours after the checkout. The bill requires the

library to post notice of the library's notification policy in a prominent place in the

library and on the library's website, if any. Under current law, subject to various

exceptions, library records that identify who borrows or uses a library material may

not be disclosed. One of the exceptions is for custodial parents or guardians of

children who are under the age of 16. Specifically, current law requires that a library

supported by public funds disclose to the custodial parent or guardian of a child who

is under the age of 16 all library records relating to the use of the library's documents

or other materials, resources, or services by the child, but only upon request of the

custodial parent or guardian.