Meeting Public Comments

Subcommittee meeting and times are as follows:

A bill for an act prohibiting school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools from entering into certain specified contracts with public libraries and hosting mobile libraries.(See HF 2324.)

Subcommittee members: Boden-CH, Hayes, Levin

Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Time: 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM

Location: RM 305

Names and comments are public records. Remaining information is considered a confidential record.

Comments Submitted:

02-03-2026

Kevin Delecki

Public libraries can ensure access to educational material to children who lack access to these resources due to underfunded school libraries. There is no reason to strip away access and opportunities for these, and all, students. Vote no on this needless bill.

02-03-2026

Erin Horst

There is no point to this bill, it's an incredible waste of time. Access to reading materials shouldn't be up to the state legislature, it should be up to parents taking care of their own children. In a state that values local control, keep state government out of what my kids can read. Maybe put some work into figuring why we're all getting cancer.

02-03-2026

Jessica Musil

Vote no. Public libraries can help fill gaps on materials that a school may not be able to afford. Why do you want to make it harder for students to access the resources they need? Seems like a veiled way to limit what a child can access. As a parent, it's my job to discuss appropriate reading materials that match our family values. It's not your job. We're a state of adding parental choice and control...so put forth bills that actually support that instead of removing my parental rights.

02-03-2026

Charity Tyler

This is a bad bill. You are seriously considering restricting children's access to library materials, whether provided by the actual public library or through its bookmobile. In what world are public libraries so very terrible that not one school in Iowa should have access to them? This is a waste of time and should never have been proposed. Please vote no.

02-03-2026

Heather Croskrey

This is a harmful and purely politically motivated bill that should be shut down immediately. Limiting schools and libraries from creating relationships hurts school, kids, and libraries. VOTE NO!!!!! Don't let politics continue to impose unnecessary and harmful policies on our children's access to books.

02-03-2026

Jodee Ross

This bill is classist, bigoted and racist. Limiting access to the public library is insanity. Not all kids have parents who can bring them to the library. Not all schools have the same caliber of libraries depending on their received funding. Allowing a mobile library and pairing with the library evens the playing field. It is clear this is to prevent equal access to learning opportunities. It is also playing on the asinine view that kids are accessing inappropriate materials through the library. They're not bringing porn to a mobile library at school and people don't become gay because they read a book.

02-03-2026

Beth Deboom

Why? What is the concern? Library visits and bookmobiles were a key part of my childhood. I grew up to be a writer and a lifelong reader. I wasnt damaged psychologically by library books. They enriched my life. Find something worthwhile to legislate. Waste of time and resources.

02-03-2026

Jessica Link

Vote no on HSB 636. This bill seeks to limit access to materials that help educate, inform, and inspire students. Many school libraries are under resourced and public libraries help fill in those resource gaps. Mobile libraries often bring technology and activities to students that cannot be provided in schools. No student is better off when we limit their resources. No educator is better off having less materials to support their learning goals in the classroom. This bill is harmful and unnecessary. Vote no. Support students in Iowa.

02-03-2026

Susan Cornforth

This idea is just plain STUPID. What a ridiculous concept. Iowa apparently has come to value education so little that kids dont need to read. This waste of time and money needs to just drop into the nearest round file.

02-03-2026

Brigitte Mohler

Vote no. Allowing students access to library resources and mobile libraries is a great opportunity for children to access material to inspire lifelong learning and creativity, especially for those with less access to these materials. Libraries are an important part of the educational ecosystem along with schools.

02-03-2026

Gordie Felger

Education is not the enemy of the people. Nor are libraries. Lawmakers believe that parents have the right to raise their children as the parents see fit. Then leave the responsibility of parents to parent their children. Trust parents. Trust teachers. Trust librarians. They know more about what they're doing than most of the people who favor this kind of law.Look, you already gave parents the ability to send their kids to private schools (at the taxpayers' expense). If parents are afraid of public schools and libraries, let them send their kids to private school. Stop meddling with public schools and libraries!

02-03-2026

Rick Phillips

Comments provided by the usual suspects seem as if providing sexually graphic material to minor children is a public service under attack. What is so difficult to understand that what some mistakenly call educational is harmful to young minds? HSB636 can protect young minds from harmful obscene material, but the response is, No! We cant do that! That is book banning and censorship! It seems to be adults prone to grooming children who are opposed to protecting children. They are offended when protections are put into place to prohibit future abuses. There is something mentally wrong with adults who want minors to have access to adult material. What are children being denied by not having obscene material available? They are being denied earlier stages of emotional harm! Who would want to continue that? The proponents who advocate grooming minors. I urge the subcommittee to advance HSB636. The object is to protect children, not to assuage the fears of educators and librarians.

02-03-2026

Liz Martin

Libraries are hugely important to our communities, and public library outreach in schools helps introduce kids to the joy of reading. This access is especially vital for kids whose parents may not be able to take them to the library on a regular basis. I urge you to vote no on this bill.

02-03-2026

Bridget Castelluccio

Do NOT let this bill proceed!!!!Limiting schools access to public libraries, especially mobile libraries will continue to create barriers for children to have access to FREE books and actually love to read. If we truly want to promote reading for our children, we would never have legislation to limit access to books and the public library.I am a proud reader who grew up in Indianola, which Representative Boden grew up in, that had a robust public library. I was fortunate to have access to the library as a child. Many of our children do not have an opportunity to go to the library. This impacts especially our rural districts who may not have a public library within a short distance. Many families cannot afford to purchase books so access to the public library in schools is key. Mobile libraries help address this need. Vote no so we can continue to give children access to all public library services through our schools!

02-03-2026

Molly Monk

Please vote no on this bill. Its just unnecessary. Theres no reasonable justification for blocking schools from working with libraries and book mobiles. These programs help introduce children to the joy of reading, especially for children whose parents cant take them to the library due to work or illness.

02-03-2026

Jane Robinette

I oppose HSB636. Please don't take away public and mobile library access to school students. Some students cannot easily get to their closest public library. Library cooperation agreements with schools are vital in rural districts in particular. Support our libraries and our school students! Vote no on HSB636.

02-03-2026

Anne Mangano

Who does this help? This bill will hurt reading scores and remove access to books. The purpose of these partnerships is to improve childhood literacy rates by increasing access to reading materials. Research shows that access to books is a strong predictor for success in school. Public libraries are open for more hours than school libraries, especially during school breaks. These partnerships also remove unnecessary duplication of services, such as subscriptions to digital collections, saving taxpayers a significant amount of money. Many libraries utilize school parking lots as locations for bookmobile services as they are the center of neighborhoods. By utilizing school properties, a community is better served by bringing the library to residents (especially rural ones) without the need for an expensive brickandmortar branch. By working together, public libraries and school districts bridge the reading gap for students who may not have direct access to reading materials at home.

02-03-2026

Jessica Vickers

This is a disgusting waste of tax payer dollars. Stop trying to restrict access to books. Stop restricting everyone because of the views of a few. This is an attack on education and our FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHTS. The courts have ruled on multiple occasions that removing books from school libraries and preventing access based on ideological disapproval or to suppress ideas violates students' rights to receive information. The FIRST AMENDMENT FORBIDS GOVERNMENT ACTORS INCLUDING PUBLIC SCHOOL BOARDS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM RESTRICTING ACCESS TO BOOKS SIMPLY BECAUSE THEY DISAGREE WITH THE IDEAS IN THEM!!!!!!THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION IN THIS MATTER!

02-03-2026

Eleanor Ball

These agreements reduce barriers for students who lack transportation, internet access, or family ability to visit the public library.Access to public library collections boosts literacy and learning by supplementing school libraries, especially where staffing or collections are limited.Cooperative agreements and mobile libraries support districts that are facing staffing and funding challenges. These shared services maximize taxpayer investment, especially in small and rural areas.Parents retain control through optin/optout processes and library policies.School and library boards should retain the authority to enter into lawful, communitydriven agreements.

02-03-2026

Angelica Vannatta

My grandchildren love to read!! It keeps them off electronics and builds critical thinking, strategic problemsolving, and creative imagination. Access to books and the world of knowledge and information is foundational to their academic success. But they cant always get to a physical library, and their school libraries are limited. Without the bookmobile, theyre back to screens. I kindly ask you to vote no.

02-03-2026

Jake Rochford-Volk

I STRONGLY oppose this bill! Prohibiting schools and public libraries from entering into cooperative agreements removes local control of appointed library boards and elected school boards, who are best positioned to determine what services meet the needs of their communities. These partnerships respect family choice while expanding opportunities for students.

02-03-2026

Lisa Rubino

Vote NO! Hosting mobile libraries and allowing libraries to partner with schools is an important community effort, not something that our government should be actively working against. It is crucial for the education of our future children, and essential for increasing accessibility to those less fortunate.

02-03-2026

Megan Klein-Hewett

This bill will remove access to the students who need it most. School/library partnerships are a good use of taxpayer dollars, helping students to efficiently access materials that they need for school without additional barriers. Parents always have the ability to opt in or out to their students participation. This bill is unnecessary at best, and actively harmful at worst. Vote no.

02-03-2026

Stacy Volmer

I strongly oppose House Study Bill 636. This bill restricts student access to books and educational resources by prohibiting school partnerships with public libraries and banning mobile libraries from school grounds.Public libraries support literacy, equity, and lifelong learningespecially for students with limited access to books. HSB 636 replaces local decisionmaking with unnecessary state interference and actively harms students education.This bill limits learning, weakens communities, and moves Iowa backward. It should be rejected.

02-03-2026

Jane Nesmith

Vote no on this bill. Why make it harder for children and youth to use the wealth of resources at our public libraries? And if you need to see this in terms of money, it is economically foolish not to make the best use of resources possible.

02-03-2026

Kennedy LaVille Thoren

OPPOSE THIS BILL!Public library collections strengthen literacy and learning by supplementing school libraries, particularly in districts where staffing or collections are limited. These services do not replace school libraries; they extend and reinforce the educational resources available to students.For many families, these partnerships provide the most practical and equitable way for students to access books and learning materials. Parents already retain full control through optin and optout processes and existing library policies. These partnerships respect family choice while expanding opportunities for students.Cooperative agreements and mobile libraries are especially critical for small and rural districts facing staffing and funding challenges. Shared services maximize taxpayer investment by reducing duplication and delivering resources efficiently.

02-03-2026

Shawna Riggins

Public and schools libraries partnering to support students only maximizes resources that are all too scarce. The goals of these institutions align providing access to educational resources. Please do not limit our children. They deserve success, support, and collaboration. As a parent, library professional, and concerned Iowan, I do NOT support this bill.

02-03-2026

Sam Helmick

I oppose HB 636 and urge the committee to consider its implications for local control and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.This bill prohibits schools from partnering with public libraries to allow student access through schoolissued IDs and bars bookmobiles from school property. These partnerships are locally developed, voluntary, and costeffective. They maximize the return on public investment by allowing schools and libraries to share existing resources rather than duplicate services.HB 636 replaces local decisionmaking with a statewide mandate, limiting the ability of communities to determine what works best for their students. Public libraries are governed by local boards and funded by local taxpayers to serve their communities efficiently. Preventing schools from using these services reduces the value of that investment while increasing barriers to access.#KeepLibrariesLocal

02-03-2026

Amber McNamara

Please vote no on this bill. This is such an unnecessary and unfair piece of legislation that removes control from our communities and our parents. Let us decide what our children read and stop trying to legislate out of hate and fear.

02-03-2026

Jennifer McMillan

We should be making sure children have access to more materials, not less. We must ensure we are actively contributing to the education of our children, this bill does the opposite of that. Access to public library materials increases literacy rates, and increased literacy correlates to engaged, involved citizens later in life!

02-03-2026

Cody Ferris

I strongly urge a NO vote. The issue is access not content. Parental freedom is a strong value in this state, do not legislate it away in this case. Children are not forced to enter a bookmobile, they simply have an opportunity to.

02-03-2026

Jennifer Koch

Vote no. Schools already struggle for the resources to provide a quality education in Iowa; libraries fill important gaps in access. Furthermore, I support parents' right to parent their own childrenIowa's government should not be a nanny state interfering in that right. The state does not have any duty to control what our kids readlet independent, intelligent Iowans make that call for our own kids, and stop trying to block access to books. This is a badfaith bill that assumes Iowans aren'tgood enough parents to know their own kids. As if the state knows better?

02-03-2026

Emma Stoffer

I strongly oppose HSB 636, a bill that seeks to prohibit schools and public libraries from entering into cooperative agreements. These partnerships expand access to books and learning materials with efficiency while being equitable to families in Iowa. This is especially critical in communities where our school districts are facing immense staffing and funding challenges, of which state leadership is no doubt aware. In early 2025, my home school district, Waterloo, announced a plan to account for $16 million in budget cuts. This plan would eliminate 11 teacher librarian positions. If some of Iowas largest school districts cannot afford to offer school library service to their students, what chance do our small and rural districts have? Every student in Iowa deserves efficient, practical, and equitable access to books from the libraries in their communities.

02-03-2026

Larissa Boeck

Oppose. This bill is unnecessary government overreach that will disproportionately affect rural and lowresource communities. Mobile libraries are especially valuable in areas with limited library branches or transportation challenges. Prohibiting schools from hosting them would widen educational inequities, leaving Iowa students with fewer opportunities to access highquality reading materials. Please I beg you to use the precious little legislative session time we have to bring real, meaningful change that Iowans actually want. Fund public schools instead of limiting and exerting control over them. No one wants HSB 636.

02-03-2026

Helen Colvin

Opposed. Cooperative agreements between the public library and the school district strengthen the community and improve the delivery of the value of what our local tax dollars are being spent in, ensuring this reside actually get accessed by those who need them most. Such agreements should be encouraged, not forbidden.

02-03-2026

Marian Gehrls

Our public libraries offer a wide variety of programs and services that can and should enhance our schools. First this should be about schools choosing to partner with public libraries not the legislature imposing a stop to this kind of programing that a school district may deem beneficial or not. VOTE NO

02-03-2026

Jonatha Basye

I oppose HSB 636 due to its overreach into local decisionmaking and its reduction of taxpayer return on investment in public libraries. Iowas locally governed schools and libraries already operate under Iowa law and community standards and should retain the ability to collaborate efficiently to serve students.

02-03-2026

Amanda Johnson

Having easy access to reading material is crucial for child development. Libraries are important to our communities, and public library outreach in schools helps introduce kids to the joy of reading and encourages learning, raising test scores and better educated kids. I strongly urge you to vote no on this bill.

02-03-2026

Nancy Medema

I oppose this bill. Collaborations between publicly funded entities should be encouraged in order to use tax monies wisely. Sharing resources and filling areas of need only positively affect students, and providing access to books and materials via bookmobiles helps those who dont live close to their library. Leave the decision on what parents want their children to read up to those parent. The government has no place in those decisions.

02-03-2026

Brett Cloyd

Please vote no. My kids and I have benefited from access to materials on many kinds of topics. We learn to read, think and relate to other people. We also build important skills to enhance our communities. Thanks for supporting readers of all ages.

02-03-2026

Vince Ellison

I do not support HSB 636. I struggle to understand who benefits from this bill or what problem it meaningfully solves. Preventing voluntary, locally governed partnerships between schools and public libraries feels like state overreach rather than sound policy.

02-03-2026

Jillian A

I strongly oppose this bill. Our public library has spent decades fostering a strong relationship with our public school system, and we are in regular communication with school librarians and educators on ways we can support them and their students. At a time where school resources are limited, and literacy rates across this state are dropping, why would lawmakers make it more difficult for students to access resources they need to succeed in their academic endeavors? Please vote no on HSB 636.

02-03-2026

Kelsey Pool Kean

Please vote no. While I understand the argument for paying attention to what kids have exposure to, I do not understand the desire to ban books and penalize public libraries. Making it more difficult for kids to access and discover different materials for reading, especially in a world dominated by algorithms, will have a long lasting effect on Iowa students.

02-03-2026

Janene Krug

I am writing in opposition to HSB 636. Public libraries support school districts by offering expanded resources. This partnership strengthens literacy and learning and enhances educational experiences. Legislation limiting access to library materials is government overreach. Sweeping legislation limits our right to access information.

02-03-2026

Martha McClurg

As a parent, I strongly oppose HSB 636. I want all children to have access to information and education. Crippling the ability of two systems public education and public libraries to work together to do so is ridiculous. Current laws already provide protections for children and parental control. HSB 636 is simply not needed.

02-03-2026

Anne Tews

Do NOT pass this bill, stay with local governments governing. This is overreach; educators and librarians are professionals with a lot of training and education. We can manage these agreements without the state's interference.

02-03-2026

Sara Parris

So let me get this straightIowa Republicans continue to underfund public schools and divert money to private schools, leading public schools to make budget cuts, which often results in no school libraries. When schools get creative and take advantage of FREE public partnerships that allow students access to books, Iowa Republicans throw a fit because....kids still get access to books? Make it make sense.For the party of limited government, ya'll sure are interested in creating a nanny state. Public opinion on this bill is clearyou must vote NO.

02-03-2026

Synona Culbertson

It's a terrible idea to limit children's access to educational materials. Look at where Iowa ranks in public education right now! We need all the help we can get,and restricting library materials will not help us improve our educational standard.

02-03-2026

Amanda Grimm

Please vote no to this bill. These partnerships should be handled on a local level, and public libraries should be able to leverage resources for student success. Access to books, educational resources, and more should be made easier for families, not harder.

02-03-2026

Tracy Mills

Vote no. There are so many options people can choose now to avoid public education. Libraries are for everyone. Public education is for everyone. Parents may choose faith based schools, private schools, charter schools and homeschooling if they don't like public schools.

02-03-2026

Joa LaVille [Marshalltown Public Library]

As a youth services public librarian for more than 26 years, I can say that our partnerships with our local schools at all levelspreschool, elementary, middle, & high school have had enormous and often lifelong impacts on students. These partnerships maximize taxpayer investments by giving all children and their families the opportunity to utilize resources for information, improve literacy, and have a positive impact on reading achievement. This is an important way to level the playing field for all. It does not seem that the motivation for this bill has the best interests of all Iowans in mind. Please use your energy on bills that will improve the lives of families and children, as much as school/library partnerships already do.

02-03-2026

Diane McFadden

Public Libraries & schools are collaborating because funding is low. Books librarians, & collaboration are not to be feared or painted as the enemy. This bill is a waste of time. Education and literacy are important. Quit fearing books.

02-03-2026

Diane McFadden

02-03-2026

Amanda Fitzgerald

Vote no on this bill. Limiting students access to the public library helps no one. We need to empower our children to be thoughtful, curious, and wellinformed. Having access to the wealth of resources libraries provide helps cultivate this mindset. Dont restrict access to valuable learning resources for our kids. Access to a library is an equalizer, please vote to support all kids.

02-03-2026

Sheila Schofer

Please vote NO to this unnecessary bill. Parents have the choice to opt out if theyd like. School and library partnerships promote literacy, maximize resources, and save tax payers money. Having access to bookmobile services in convenient locations like schools supports access for the broader community, not just students

02-03-2026

Nancy Halls

Iowa ranked 24th among states in terms of recovery in math and 16th in reading between 2019 and 2024 yet in the period between 2022 and 2024, the state ranked last last! in the nation in math recovery and 28th in reading (per Education Recovery Scorecard) and our state legislators are considering a bill that creates additional barriers to learning? I am strongly opposed to HSB 636 and urge committee members to support public libraries, support public education, support our kids and our communities and vote NO on advancing this bill.

02-03-2026

Susan Craig

I am strongly against this bill. School libraries across the state are in a sorry state because of budget cuts and significant cost increases. The existing system shares public library materials at no cost to the schools. No book mobile goes where its not wanted and needed. If the issue is parental concern the parent should monitor their childs choices as they have every right to do, just like Im sure they do with their childrens phones.

02-03-2026

Lisa Martincik

Utterly opposed. This bill addresses a nonexistent problem, eliminates efficiency, and decreases learning opportunities. We need more cooperation, coordination, and support, not less. What a bizarre, unwarranted, and embarrassing example of a busybody state reducing small government to a joke.Please craft bills addressing your constituents many extant problems instead of writing fanfiction for yourselves. This job isnt about you.

02-03-2026

Ashley Partee

I oppose HSB 636. This bill unnecessarily restricts students access to books by banning school partnerships with public and mobile librariesresources that are especially vital in rural and underserved communities.It also undermines local control by preventing schools, libraries, and parents from making decisions that best serve their students. Iowa should be expanding access to literacy, not limiting it.Please reject HSB 636.

02-03-2026

Kristin Honz

I urge you to vote against this bill and not advance it further. Allowing easy access to public library materials and bookmobiles is a costeffective way to enable young people to learn, read, and grow. For many students, transportation and other barriers prevent Iowans from accessing reading materials. Our legislators should be encouraging kids to read and making it easier for them to do so. Vote no.

02-03-2026

Sarah Smith

So, let me get this straight. Sioux Center Library has a controversy over a teenager being allowed into the adult section via parental consent. She checks out an adult book with spicy reading content and that happens to coincide with a new Moms for Liberty chapter conveniently starting up in Sioux Center? Whatever are the odds? Stupid bill, hardly any support in the public comments. Here comes Moms for Liberty clogging up valuable legislative sessions with fantasies of saving the chilren. Vote no, and consider passing bills that tackle our air, water, and land quality. Focus on bills that serve all Iowans, not just your free labor/ volunteer foot soldiers.

02-03-2026

Megan Salyer

Against. This bill solves no problems, it just creates more obstacles for people to access information. I am instituting a new rule; no new bills shall be proposed that by general consensus could be considered a douche move. This bill hereby meets that criteria and therefore shall be henceforth removed from consideration.

02-03-2026

Elizabeth Arnold

Im strongly opposed to this bill erases communities it removes access to learning materials and violates the right to read. School and public library partnerships enhance educational opportunities and provide more level resource access.

02-03-2026

Alyssa James

Vote no. Students should have access to public library resources. Why would you inhibit knowledge to our youth? Why would you limit resources to our youth? Let parents parent their children and find something else to do.

02-03-2026

Christopher Chase

HSB 636 is a terrible and harmful bill. It kills a proven strategy in bringing school and libraries together. When my kids were younger we moved closer to their elementary school. We followed the weekly date for when the Bookmobile would be parked in the parking lot in the evenings. We would walk down, and we would all choose books to read. The kids would talk to their friends at school about the books they checked out, and convinced their friends to walk down with their parents to get library cards and read as a family. My high school kids are now avid readers who read and write well in their English courses because they have had so much experience and joy associating our amazing public library with their education. This bill should be defeated as soon as possible. Or other Iowa families will be denied this wonderful experience.

02-03-2026

Teresa Wellman

OPPOSED. Please vote NO. There is no specified purpose or reasoning for why schools shouldnt partner with their local public libraries. Children in rural areas as are much of this state seldom have access to public libraries. Its a good thing to have bookmobiles visit these schools much as they have served rural areas children for years. Who writes these bills for this legislature? There are no Iowans asking for this.

02-03-2026

Jennifer Proctor

Oppose. Public libraries are positive influences on our school children. I have witnessed both Des Moines Public and Waukee Public librarians bring the love of reading to preschool children. Countless teachers check out resources to support their teaching and students learning. Their summer reading programs help to prevent summer learning slides. Please consider the consequences of this legislation.

02-04-2026

Karen Maass

I am very opposed to this bill. I grew up in rural Iowa and cleaned our local public library as a job in middle school and high school. I lived in that library taking 67 books home every week. My grades in school rose to A's and B's with scores on Iowa Basic Skills test raising by 50 55 % from 3rd grade on. I definitely attributed my success in school and college to the amount of reading I did. I would give anything to see my grandchildren off of their phones and reading books. This law is crazy. Is its aim to make our children more uneducated? Who comes up with bills like this?? Let's make our children successful.

02-04-2026

Madeline Cole

There are very few places left where children and families can go without being expected to spend money. Libraries are one of them. Vote NO, and support these partnerships instead. To the people who seemed concerned that this will give kids access to inappropriate materials, how about putting together some workshops for parents on how to evaluate when their children are ready for big topics, and how to support them through learning about adult things in an ageappropriate way? That would be a lot more productive that pretending that certain things don't exist, and ending up with an uninformed generation of children.

02-04-2026

Kathleen Kennedy

This is government overreach to make people's lives harder and reduce their access to taxpayerfunded resources. We've got real problems right now; libraries and schools cooperating to help educate our children isn't one of them. No on this bill.

02-04-2026

Heather Clark

Please vote no. Why would we want to restrict students' access to educational materials? If schools want to work with libraries, we should let them! We need to encourage reading, not discourage it. Partnering together, especially in rural communities, helps children gain access to books.

02-04-2026

Nicole Wilson

It is an awful idea to restrict children from using a public library. A public library is crucial for children to have access to resources that they may not otherwise be able to access. This legislation feels like one more example of severe government overreach that threatens education in Iowa. Absolutely do NOT support this bill.

02-04-2026

Heidi Ostergren

I urge the subcommittee to vote no on HSB 636.Schoolpublic library partnerships are a proven, costeffective way to expand student access to books, digital resources, and educational support. Programs such as student ID cards functioning as library cards significantly increase library use and reading frequency, particularly for rural, lowincome, and transportationlimited families.Research consistently shows that students with access to public library resources are more likely to read at grade level and complete homework successfully. Eliminating cooperative agreements would reduce access without improving safety or oversight.Public libraries already operate under professional standards for ageappropriate materials, privacy, and accountability. HSB 636 addresses no demonstrated problem and would disproportionately harm students who rely most on shared community resources.Please vote against HSB 636.

02-04-2026

Tricia Kane

Please vote no to this bill. Partnerships with public libraries directly support the literacy needs of students and bring resources that supplement the work of the schools. This is a way to maximize tax payer investment. Parents have the choice to opt out of visits, and decisions on these partnerships should be left to local authorities,

02-04-2026

Susan Young

VOTE NO on this bill.There are no benefits to this bill. It would only limit student access to resources that are already too scarce due to limited state funding.Iowa should once again be a state that supports children and education.

02-04-2026

Michelle Andersen

Please vote against this bill. School libraries are underfunded and understaffed. Being able to partner with the local public library allows teachers more access to resources and increases the probability of students finding reading materials that they enjoy. I am the director of the Atlantic Public Library and we regularly assist teachers with resources they can share with their students.

02-04-2026

Lucinda Core

Considering the limitations put on AEA agencies, schools need access to library resources. Please stop limiting the resources available to schools and students. Students need to learn about resources that are available to them and how to appropriately select necessary material for their own interest and research.

02-04-2026

Gloria zmolek

This bill is so ridiculous I cannot believe I am having to take the time to comment here. Do we not want our students to be educated? To learn how to think? Is the point of education now to simply brainwash our students into believing whatever the group in power wants them to believe? Have you ever read Fahrenheit 451 because this is what appears to be happening. Where did someone even come up with this idea?

02-04-2026

Linda Moore

I pay taxes so that Iowa citizens, especially youth, can have the best opportunities for education. With limited funding for each, it makes sense for both entities to cooperate to maximize their resources. Would you take that away from your own children and grandchildren?

02-04-2026

Lexie Reiling

Please vote no on this bill. School and public library partnerships support literacy and access to educational materials. This is especially critical when so many school library budgets are being slashed and school librarian positions eliminated. Students deserve access to books!

02-04-2026

Emmaly Renshaw

Vote no. This bill would limit access and not protect children from the reality of easy access to mature material online. Public libraries should stay a place where readers of all ages can access a spectrum of subjects. Reading is power.

02-04-2026

Matthieu Biger

I echo the vast majority of "opposed" comments, which I urge you to read.Please vote No.Access to public libraries should be encouraged not hampered, especially when schools' own resources have faced different struggles.

02-04-2026

Justin Scott

For the record, I oppose HSB 636 and the state should too!Undermining schoollibrary partnerships harms learning outcomes.Cutting off mobile libraries disproportionately impacts rural students.Keeping books out of schools addresses no real educational problem.In Iowa, public libraries are trusted community institutions.Access to information should be expanded, not banned.Government overreach like this is ironic coming from the small government party.Once again, very mustache man of all of you (fascism jokes write themselves).Please reject HSB 636.

02-04-2026

Megan Bildner

Access to reading materials shouldn't be up to the state legislature, it should be up to parents taking care of their own children. We are already struggling to provide resources in schools due to a lack of state funding. The public libraries are a great supplement for kids and it should stay that way! In a state that values local control, keep state government out of what kids can read. Let the parents decide that!

02-04-2026

Mike Ladehoff [City of Marshalltown ]

I vote NO!!! What could possibly be the advantage for taxpayers to do this? Public Library/ School partnerships stretches dwindling tax dollars and realize the positive impact that libraries can have in their lives.

02-04-2026

Kathryn Fink

Please vote no on this bill. School and public library partnerships provide a lot of benefits for students: more resources, greater access for students who might not have transportation or internet access at home, supporting literacy in our communities. These partnerships help to maximize taxpayer investments, especially as many districts are facing funding challenges.

02-04-2026

M. Shrikhande

Every day, public libraries strengthen Iowa communities by helping people find jobs, start businesses, and ensure children learn to read. Please do not restrict childrens access to library materials, whether through public libraries or bookmobiles.Iowa has a proud library legacy. In 1938, the Library Bill of Rights was drafted in Des Moines by library director Forrest Spaulding, affirming libraries as neutral, locally governed institutions serving their communities. For nearly ninety years, Iowans have upheld the principles of access to information and the freedom to read. This Iowaborn framework later shaped national library standards.Please vote no on this bill. Thank you for your time and consideration.

02-04-2026

Amanda Sand

Vote no. I oppose this bill because would eliminate practical partnerships that help students access books and learning resources. Public libraries extend the reach of school library programs, particularly in districts with limited staff or collections, and shared services are an efficient way to support schools facing ongoing funding challenges. These approaches are especially important in rural communities. Families already have the ability to choose whether their children participate, and decisions about these agreements are best left to locally elected school and library boards.

02-04-2026

Jordyn Moore

There is no statistical or logical benefit to limit library usage in the State of Iowa. This is a continued attack on the education system and libraries, specifically. Librarians do not require, push, or force anyone to consume any information. This is another concerted attempt of the Republican Parties to overstep the runnings and dealings of local governments, when they are supposed to be the party of small government. The solution to this isnt to limit library access; it is for parents and guardians to remain informed and involved in their childs life to make the best decisions for them, which would vary from the best decisions for my family. The State government has NO roll inserting itself here other than to continue to limit the educational attainment of Iowans, which hurts everyone in the long run.

02-04-2026

Jessica Saunders

As a parent, I see firsthand how important libraries are to my children. They love going to the library, discovering new books, and feeling excited about learning. When schools and libraries work togetherespecially through shared resources and mobile librariesit expands access and makes learning feel welcoming and joyful for kids. These partnerships are especially important for families who may not be able to visit a library regularly. Preventing schools and libraries from collaborating doesnt help children; it limits opportunities and wastes valuable community resources. Our kids deserve to see public institutions working together to support their education and curiosity.

02-04-2026

Liz Petersen

The services public libraries can help provide to students is fundamental and their success as citizens of our future. It is free, it is equitable, and it provides a bridge, and window, and mirror to the world that our young people are living in. I am the Library Director for small community library who shares a space with the public school. Partnerships, I am able to foster with our community and with our students outweighs any nonexistent consequences. They simply do not exist. We have policy to protect and support our community for a reason. These policies are revised and codified frequently. To say that libraries are a hinderance to any community, especially our students, is not only false, but also dangerous rhetoric.

02-04-2026

Lisa Petrie

Theres no good reason for this bill. Public/school partnerships have been hugely successful. Prohibiting these partnerships makes it even more difficult for students to access limited resources, especially districts who are already buckling under the weight of inadequate school funding. Please vote NO.

02-04-2026

Tonya Gaffney [Lenihan Intermediate, Marshalltown Community Schools]

Please consider how schoollibrary partnerships strengthen our literacy supports and efficiently use tax payer dollars.Equal Access: Removes barriers for students lacking transportation, internet, or the ability to visit a library branch in person.Boosts Literacy: Supplements school librariesespecially those with limited staff or collectionswith vast public resources.Fiscal Responsibility: Maximizes taxpayer dollars through shared services, mobile libraries, and cooperative agreements.Vital for Rural Areas: Provides small districts with essential learning tools they couldn't afford on their own.Parental Choice: Families retain control through clear optin/optout policies.Local Authority: Local boards should keep the power to make communitydriven decisions for their own students.

02-04-2026

Andrea McIlwee

Don't we have a declining literacy problem in this state (shamefully, as our high ranking used to be a point of pride for Iowa)? We should be celebrating every partnership and program that encourages students to read. It is appalling how much time and taxpayer dollars Republicans spend on unnecessary legislation, which will cost even more when this bill is challenged in court. This state has real issues to solve: water and air quality, struggling rural towns, healthcare access, rising cancer rates, to name a few. Why don't you focus on problems that impact us all?Stop villifying libraries. They are not the enemy.

02-04-2026

Dianna Roth

Theres no reason to limit access to materials. The library provides alternate formats of books as well as increased access for children with different learning abilities.Public libraries can ensure access to educational material to children who lack access to these resources due to underfunded school libraries. There is no reason to limit access and opportunities for these, and all, students. Vote no on this bill.

02-04-2026

Heather Moran

What good comes from passing this bill? Nothing. You are promoting censorship and cutting children off from access to higher, quality education. It is despicable. Stop taking opportunities for betterment from public school children. This is ridiculous. Vehemently vote NO!

02-04-2026

Michelle Morey

If legislators have concerns about children and reading, they should be focused on increasing literacy rather than undercutting it. Partnership between public and school libraries is nothing more than a common sense step to increase access to materials that school libraries cannot afford to purchase and to materials that are available remotely, which benefits those who cannot make it to the public library in person.

02-04-2026

Corissa Thompson

I oppose HSB 636. I served as a certified teacher librarian in Iowa for 16 years and now work in a public library. Schoolpublic library partnerships are not new and were not created to bypass the law. They exist because many Iowa schools cannot meet academic library standards due to a severe lack of certified librarians. According to Iowas BEDS data, teacher librarians declined from 636 in 2001 to 373 in 2024, serving approximately 1,316 school buildings = 0.28 FTE per building. While some districts fare better, many struggle to provide consistent access. As of 2023, eight Iowa districts share school and public library facilities. These partnerships raise standards, expand access to books, support literacy initiatives, and advance digital and information literacy goals, especially where staffing and resources are limited. They are lawful, transparent, and governed by school and library boards. Parents retain control through existing policies and can opt out. HSB 636 harms Iowans.

02-04-2026

Annie Panthani

I oppose HSB 636. Partnership between schools and public libraries allows children to access a wider range of resources. This is especially important for children whose school libraries are small or underfunded, or whose hardworking parents don't have the flexibility to take them to the library often. Parents who are concerned about specific content should do the work of having ongoing conversations with their kids. Parents are also able to encourage their kids to explore resources beyond what their school library offers. Access to more books and information does not obligate you to consume all of it. It simply gives you the choice. Borrow a movie from the library for free, pop some popcorn, and have movie night with your loved ones!

02-04-2026

Jamie Achenbaugh

I oppose this bill. Public libraries are locally governed institutions that already operate under Iowa Code, community standards, professional collection policies, and parental choice. HSB 636 does not address a demonstrated compliance gapit instead replaces local judgment with a blanket prohibition.

02-04-2026

Rachel Evans [Davenport Library Foundation]

Please vote NO to HSB 636! This legislation would potentially take away library access to those who need it most. My local library parks their outreach mobile library at different schools throughout the summer providing wifi and a chance to check out books into neighborhoods in need. Please stop regulating libraries!

02-04-2026

Jane Vereen

This bill will limit reading resources to children who do not have access to their public library system and or/ a library card. A mobile library fills a gap for these children. This appears to be another bill That tries to suffocate public libraries. Not allowing children to check out books using student ID instead of a library card limits the use of a method that delivers to rural areas of our state. Vote NO on this bill.

02-04-2026

Nick Covington

I oppose HSB636. This is a solution in search of a problem that doesn't exist. Library partnerships are an incredible benefit, especially for smaller districts and for underserved communities. Putting unnecessary barriers between students, schools, and libraries is not a way to improve education access and outcomes.

02-04-2026

Wendi Riggens

Restricting access to books, reading material, and education in any way, shape, or form, hurts all of us. Public libraries should be heralded for the free exchange of information and educational opportunities, and we should be encouraging more use and support of these incredible institutions. If you are concerned about the books your child might read, whether it come from their school library or the public library, perhaps you should pick up a few books and start reading more yourself. Education and books give EVERY citizen a chance to be a better version of themselves, and to improve the world around them. This bill is a shameful attempt at controlling people and ideas that you do not understand, rather than working for the better good of all. Stop hurting libraries and our schools and children. Go browse the stacks and pick up some books that make you uncomfortable. Read them. Sit with it. BE BETTER.

02-04-2026

Natasha Wendt

I am writing to express my opposition to HSB 636 that would prohibit schools and public libraries from entering into cooperative agreements, including the use of student ID cards as library cards and access to libraryowned mobile services on school property.Public library collections strengthen literacy and learning by supplementing school libraries, particularly in districts where staffing or collections are limited. For many families, these partnerships provide the most practical and equitable way for students to access books and learning materials. Parents already retain full control through optin and optout processes and existing library policies. These partnerships respect family choice while expanding opportunities for students.Cooperative agreements and mobile libraries are especially critical for small and rural districts facing staffing and funding challenges. Please oppose this bill.

02-04-2026

Rachel McKenny

This bill is limiting children's ability to learn and grow. My children have been able to learn about so many topics from library books. Just this week, they checked out books about Helen Keller, an Atlas of the world, as well as fantasy novels to keep them off screens. Support schools and libraries by letting this go.

02-04-2026

Gabriel Wagner

Why would we spend the money on public resources and then restrict access and collaboration to them? This is a free country where the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and differing opinions is not only accepted but encouraged. Vote NO to this bill

02-04-2026

Sarah Latcham

I am opposed to this bill. It would limit the way in which libraries can function to provide the best service to all our patrons. It would also be financially detrimental as allowing schools and public libraries to work together makes all dollars stretch. I am a school librarian and my public library counterparts are invaluable. One of the things that makes the library community so powerful is the many ways we collaborate and cooperate.

02-04-2026

Daniel Miller-Jacobs

Please vote no on this bill. This is yet another example of Iowas multiyear trend of censorship. Parents have the opt in and opt out availability of many programs, including monitoring what their children check out at libraries. Any smartphone has myriad access to material that is inappropriate for children. Libraries are longstanding sanctuaries of learning. This bill is about censorship and punishment, not protection.

02-04-2026

Kristin MacDonald

I hope committee members vote no, public libraries are an important resource and we need to continue to encourage collaboration between schools and libraries to continue to connect students with resources in their communities.

02-04-2026

Emma Cassabaum [Board of Trustees for Nevada Public Library]

This legislation would harm libraries, students, and infringe on first amendment rights. Our students and communities deserve the best access to our libraries, and our libraries need to operate without interference from unnecessary legislation. Libraries are for all!

02-04-2026

Claire Matthews

I am opposed to this bill. Students rely on partnerships with libraries to access audiobooks of the materials they are already reading in class. Removing partnerships with public libraries creates barriers to kids who already struggle: students with learning disabilities and dyslexia. Parents already can opt their child out of partnerships with public libraries. This bill is redundant. It adds unnecesary legislation. This bill doesn't protect children, it makes it harder for them to learn at the rate of their classmates.

02-04-2026

Chelsea Cheney

Vote no. Why are we wasting time on pointless and harmful rules that prevent the basic functioning of society? Do better. Bring up bills that actually help society instead of detracting from the job you should be doing.

02-04-2026

Jeff Collins

As a homeschool parent, I'm very confused about what this bill hopes to accomplish. Shouldn't the legislature be encouraging these types of collaborations to make better use of taxpayer dollars? Please don't move this bill forward!

02-04-2026

Rebekah Hosford

This is ridiculous. Why are we trying to restrict kids' access to information, and allowing schools and public libraries to supplement each other? Sharing resources is just a smart decision all around and is fiscally responsible, too. Vote No.

02-04-2026

Elizabeth Estling

There is no reason for this bill. What the heck do people think libraries are bringing kids? They are bringing Frog and Toad. They are bringing Clifford. They are bringing Box Car Children. They are bringing coloring sheets of flowers. Bookmarks with books. Librarians are bringing kids books for kids. If a parent does not want their child to have access to Dr. Seuss they can opt them out. There is no reason to ban kids from families who read books from the books they want. We all pay the taxes for these services and we should all be getting access to these books. Librarians have been taking books TO the people since Appalachian horse back librarians 100 years ago.

02-04-2026

Annette Butikofer [Fayette Community library ]

Everyone agrees kids need to be able to read! Why would you make it harder to get the resources needed to allow them the chance to do it? Yes, there is a kid who soaks up every lesson on history but struggles to read the textbook. What happens when you present a graphic novel that teaches it in pictures? What happens when 5 kids in the class want to read about frogs and metamorphosis but the school library only has one book? Why not let them be able to ask the public library to interlibrary loan that cool book they saw online?We have to do whatever we can to increase the materials kids,& ADULTS have access to if we want them to be able to thrive in a world where the ability to read is critical to every aspect, we have to take down barriers. This bill would add more, and who would benefit from that?

02-04-2026

Deb Burton

There is no clear need for HSB 636.As a public school librarian and a trustee of a local public library, I have seen firsthand how beneficial it is when schools and public libraries work together to promote readingespecially in rural communities where resources can be limited. These partnerships strengthen literacy, access, and community engagement.Parents already have the ultimate responsibility and authority to guide their own childrens reading choices, both in schools and in public libraries. HSB 636 is unnecessary and risks undermining effective, locally responsive practices that are already working well.

02-04-2026

Lindsey Kaib

02-04-2026

Jean Kaul Brown

Strongly opposed. This is an absolutely ridiculous bill. We have real problems to solve for Iowa and Iowa kids this bill does the complete opposite of that. Limiting children's learning is shameful. Do not let this bill come out of subcommittee. It's a waste of legislator's time when we have so many other real issues to tackle as a state.

02-04-2026

Pat Jensen-Bock

I oppose HSB 636 due to its overreach into local decision making. It makes sense that schools and libraries should be able to collaborate, to fill the gaps in materials access. I imagine this would have a great impact especially in rural districts. Please vote no.

02-04-2026

Heather Frese

This is an absolute waste of time and effort upon the legislature to even propose such a bill. Libraries and schools work well together, something that the legislature needs to do. These decisions should fall upon the board trustees of schools and libraries, NOT the state. Please vote no on this bill!

02-04-2026

Bobbi Newman

I oppose HSB 636 for its intrusion into local control and its negative impact on the return on taxpayer investment in public libraries. Iowas locally governed schools and libraries already follow state law and community standards and should maintain the ability to collaborate efficiently to serve students.

02-04-2026

Elizabeth Walker

Are we still lying to ourselves and saying Iowa has a foundation in education? No wonder our ranking in education continues to fall. This is our government trying to further destroy public education in our state. All this bill does is limit access to educational materials to children and schools that need it most. They dont have to burn the books, they just remove them.Vote NO to HSB 636

02-04-2026

Dani Trimble [Ballard Community School District]

We respectfully urge you to oppose HSB 636 and preserve our district's ability to provide library access to our students through locally determined partnerships. Please see the attached letter.

Attachment

02-04-2026

Julie Rosenbohm [Citizen & Parent]

Moving this bill forward will be doing all harm and no good. There are so many smaller school districts without a welldeveloped library who rely on these partnerships to bring additional resources to students. Families in all districts who don't have the ability to get children to the library can currently count on bookmobilespopulated with ageappropriate materials. Facilitating access to public library materials does nothing but harm. Parents *already* have the ability to opt out of this, but by legislating these partnerships away, you remove any choice that the vast majority of parents want (and currently have) to opt IN. Restricting access to books and information for ALL students will not help our alreadyunderfunded and overburdened schools. Please do not move this forward.

02-04-2026

Kim Hanna

Vote No on this ridiculous bill. Why are you wasting time on this when there are real issues in our state? Why wouldn't we want our schools and public libraries to work together to help educate our children? I benefitted from a bookmobile when I was a child, giving me access to books that provided and encouraged adventure, curiosity, and education. Why would anyone want to move their families to Iowa if so many decisions in Des Moines are antieducation. Please vote no.

02-04-2026

Christine Barth

There is a reading crisis in this country with 40 percent of 3rd and 4th graders reading under grade level and close to half of Iowa kindergartners rated as ready for kindergarten. Our public libraries in Eastern Iowa are partnering with schools to address this critical issue. Why would you take away innovative ideas especially in rural areas? These programs are happening within already strapped budgets and taking place in creative ways. Government interference is not needed here.

02-04-2026

Tracy Briseno [P]

Please vote no. This bill creates unnecessary barriers in helping children have access to literature and learning. Parents are already able to opt out. Please maintain parental control and allow us to make decisions for our children regarding their library access. The Bookmobile is a treasured part of our community and has been since I was a child. I am thankful that I am able to choose to sign my child up for a library card so easily. This is not a good bill and it's bad for Iowa's children, families, and communities. Please vote no.

02-04-2026

Erin Finnegan-Andrews

Please vote NO. With school libraries consistently under funded and under staffed, please continue to allow these vital relationships to remain. If parents want to opt out, great. Let students and parents who want their children to have access to more materials continue to do so. This bill is a total waste of time and resources.

02-04-2026

Beverly Sherbondy

VOTE NO on this bill. We need to encourage students to access their public libraries for lifelong learning and cooperation between schools and public libraries is essential. Our library has wonderful learning opportunities with special exhibits of interest for all ages as well as the books, videos, and reference materials collections.

02-04-2026

Emily Cornish

Vote no. How would it be good public policy to make libraries less accessible? Allowing students to use their student ID to access public libraries eliminates a step of acquiring a library card. It is in the best interest of Iowa to make books and other library materials as accessible as possible.

02-04-2026

Devin Carney

It makes no sense to prohibit additional resources for schools from libraries, including mobile libraries. I can't think of a single reason why it would be necessary to extend this level of statewide control to determine what schools can do in coordination with public resources that would otherwise be widely available to the public, including schoolchildren. This is an asinine, ridiculous exertion of state government control over something that should, at the very most, be decided by local government. Incredible overreach for no reason.

02-04-2026

Jamie Achenbaugh

02-04-2026

Bryanna Zmolek

As a parent, an educator in the public school system, as well as an active local public library trustee, this bill would be detrimental to schools being able to access increased resources for students, especially in rural areas that have limited access to a wide range of literature and other informational resources. School and public libraries follow state standards and accreditation in order to be able to fully serve our schools and communities. Our public library has a long history of working with our public schools through providing educational resources for teachers, various programs held at the school, assisting students in receiving their library cards, and accessing digital resources. If our public library was unable to host a mobile library or provide other resources that schools are currently unable to provide on their own due to limited funding, our students would not have as wide a range of access to educational materials needed to learn.

Attachment

02-04-2026

Trevor Krug

Collaboration between schools and public libraries is efficient government. In a time when resources are becoming increasingly stretched thin, public libraries are lifelines to school libraries that simply don't have the resources that public libraries do. Students in rural communities will especially suffer. In my community, the public library provides thousands of books a year to students and staff at our school district. Suddenly stripping that away will cause incredible harm to our young people's ability to have a wide breadth of materials to access for learning and leisure.

02-04-2026

Judith Jensen

There is a high correlation between reading and success, increasing critical thinking, comprehension and vocabulary. Any limits on books and reading will negatively impact our children's future. Please vote no and show the people of this state you care about books, reading, libraries and local control. Giving parents the right to curtail library books is one thing: the state taking on that role is a very different other.

02-04-2026

Chelsey Kolpin

I oppose HSB 636. Please vote no to continuing discussion on this bill. Schoolpublic library partnerships are longstanding and were not created to evade state law. They arose out of necessity, as many Iowa schools cannot meet academic library standards due to a serious shortage of licensed teacher librarians and funding in schools and public libraries to support them. According to Iowa BEDS data, the number of teacher librarians declined from 636 in 2001 to 373 in 2024. These educators now support approximately 1,316 school buildingsan average of just 0.28 fulltime positions per building. While some districts are sufficiently staffed, many continue to struggle to provide dependable library access. This bill currently affects 10 or fewer libraries in the state. Let's spend our time and energy on bigger fish, especially since nothing but good things come from sharing resources in our smaller communities in Iowa.

02-04-2026

Julie Rosenbohm [Citizen & Parent]

02-04-2026

Laura Henriksen

Vote no.The partnership between school and public libraries is so important. Students able to use their school ID as a library card have access to so many additional resources and not just books. They can access more databases for research projects, audiobooks & ebooks to assist struggling readers, programming and activities, Makerspaces, reading programs, and so much more. Passing this will do nothing but harm our students and restrict their access to learning.

02-04-2026

Sally Benson

Why in the world would obstacles be put up to prevent school and library cooperation? This defies basic logic and common sense. Students and families from ALL walks of life deserve open and free access to books and all resources offered. Vote NO! Thank you.

02-04-2026

John Kenyon [Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature]

Please vote "no" on this bill. In a world where kids already have access to every conceivable piece of information, it is more vital than ever to give them access to a curated collection of material and the experts who can direct them to what they need to find. Public libraries are hubs in our communities, and anything we can do to encourage children to develop the habit of visiting and using library resources is a win. This bill would do the opposite, and should be rejected immediately.

02-04-2026

Jennifer Dovre

I oppose HSB 636. As a parent of a child who attends a school that partners with the local public library, I have experienced how partnerships with public libraries are essential for many Iowa schools that lack sufficient certified library staff and resources. Without this partnership, my child's access to materials would be severly impacted. School and public library collaborations are lawful, transparent, and governed locally, expanding access to books and supporting literacy and information literacy. Parents already retain full authority over their childrens reading choices through existing policies. HSB 636 is unnecessary and would undermine practices that are effectively supporting students and families. Please vote no.

02-04-2026

Chris Stoner [Hiawatha Public Library]

Decisions regarding collaborations like this should be left at the local level. As school and public library staff and funding gets tighter, collaborations like these are increasingly important to investing in our state's children by making sure they have access to educational resources. There is no good reason to limit local collaborations like this.

02-04-2026

Victoria Anderson

Respectfully, limiting access to educational resources through cutting ties between schools and public libraries will not help Iowas children. We are concerned with falling behind in reading fluency, but considering limiting the access students have to books and other educational resources? This proposed legislation creates equity issues for Iowas students. I proudly support Iowas public schools and public libraries. Education is supposed to be the great equalizer. Why is the legislature trying to dismantle it?

02-04-2026

Ashley Osborn

This bill does not help our students or communities, which would limit accesses to resources and collaborative opportunities. Schools and public libraries work handinhand to provide the next generation with access to materials and information they might not otherwise have. Do not limit this access vote no!

02-04-2026

Kimberly Machovec-Smith

Vote no. I am against this bill. It is nonsensical to limit cooperation between consistently underfunded schools and the public library that can help provide information, materials, computer access and more to students.

02-04-2026

Katie Reierson

I've seen both sides of this. I've seen what can happen when schools and libraries work together on access and programming, and I've seen what happens when they're not connected. A connected school and library system promotes learning in new innovative and different ways. It connects families with resources. It expands capabilities and autonomy for students. Allowing for these connections builds real community and access to resources in ways that separation just can't.

02-04-2026

Kaitlyn Dodds

I am strongly opposed to this bill. As a teacher librarian, I find this to be another damaging way to limit student access to literature and their own personal growth. Iowa has always been a beacon of educational light and dimming that light for our future is not only shameful but an indicator of a broken political system. VOTE NO.

02-04-2026

Adam Moore

This is absolutely ridiculouswhat is the purpose of this bill? It seems to me that you are attempting to restrict access to materials that some families might find objectionablebut those materials are already available in the public library. It's becoming apparent that you couldn't ban them there, and now you're trying to move onto other venues.If you are concerned about encountering objectionable content, don't let your kid board the book mobile. It's that simple. Don't take educational opportunities away from my children. We need a more educated citizenry, NOT LESS!

02-04-2026

Laura Crossett

Children benefit from access to a variety of reading material from which they can choose books that best match their interests, reading level, and needs. School libraries meet some of that need: public libraries enhance it and are a vital part of our democracy and our childrens education. If we want literate citizens, we need to provide MORE access to books, not less. This bill is counterproductive at best and a threat to our society at worst.

02-04-2026

Melissa White

What problem are we trying to solve here? Public library partnerships and mobile libraries exist to fill gapsespecially for students in rural areas, lowincome communities, or schools without full library services. For many kids, these partnerships are their primary access to books. Eliminating them doesnt create safeguards; it simply removes access.This bill also overrides local control. School boards, librarians, and educators already have processes to evaluate materials and partnerships based on community standards. A blanket prohibition replaces professional judgment with a onesizefitsall restriction.Most concerning, this policy will increase inequality. Wellfunded districts will adapt. Underresourced schools will not. That means educational opportunity will depend even more on ZIP code.I urge you to oppose this bill.

02-04-2026

Mickey Rottinghaus

HSB 636 is not worth the cost of the paper it will be written on. The time it took to come up with this language was a waste of taxpayer money. There can be no justification for this ridiculous drivel. Iowa USED TO BE number one in the nation in terms of education quality. The thinking behind the changes exacted which has diminished our standing is THIS kind of narrowminded nonsense. There have been countless studies done which verify the reading proficiency of a given population rises in direct correlation to the availability of and access to reading materials. This bill shall result in the further dumbing down of Iowa's population. Vote NO on HSB636.

02-04-2026

Kristine Matheson

While my district is unaffected by this bill, I have friends in the Clear Creek district who are. I dont really understand why you want to limit Childrens access to libraries? The connection seems like a good way to use and share limited resources in those school districts. Doesnt Iowa have much bigger issues to tackle? Like clean water?

02-04-2026

Kate Dale

This is just another way to ban books. Just stop. Access to reading materials shouldn't be up to the state legislature, it should be up to parents taking care of their own children. In a state that values local control, keep state government out of what my kids can read.

02-04-2026

Caleb Cooper

Please don't restrict library boards from the ability to independently determine the needs of their community and enter into agreements that support education and literacy. Do not support this bill that will do nothing but cause harm and enact more hurdles to books especially for students who lack transportation, internet access, or family ability to visit the public library.

02-04-2026

Danny Wagener

I oppose HSB 636. Schoolpublic library partnerships haveca longstanding history and were not created to bypass the law. They exist because of all the Iowa schools that cannot meet academic library standards due to a lack of certified librarians. Many districts struggle to provide consistent access. These partnerships raise standards, expand access to books, support literacy initiatives, and advance digital and information literacy goals, especially where staffing and resources are limited. They are lawful, transparent, and governed by school and library boards. Parents retain control through existing policies and can opt out. HSB 636 harms Iowans!

02-04-2026

Ashley Moore

Public libraries play a vital role in supporting literacy, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Prohibiting such partnerships reduces educational opportunities and weakens a valuable community resource for children and families. Vote NO!

02-04-2026

Casey Franks

Depriving Public schools from partnering with public libraries and bookmobiles fundamentally does not make sense. Schools should utilize every possible resource available to them to give our children a good education. Whomever is coming up with these idiotic ideas has no place in Iowa's House Education Committee.

02-04-2026

Barbara Phillips

As a school board member, I believe decisions about student access to educational resources belong at the local level. Our districts work closely with families and community partners, including public libraries, to support literacy and learning. This bill removes local discretion and replaces it with a onesizefitsall mandate, which is not in the best interest of students or communities.

02-04-2026

Mary Kenyon

I am against this bill and FOR providing access to libraries to Iowa students. There are so many stories of people crediting their childhood libraries with opening the doors to their great success as adults. Dont cut that off for Iowa students!

02-04-2026

Aly Humphrey

Please vote NO! We dont need any more limitations for students to access books and learning materials. Libraries are so important to our communities and we should continue to give them all of our support to help kids flourish. As a parent, our local library has been such a strong resource to help my child access books, materials, and developmental play and resources to assist in him developing a strong foundation for future years.

02-04-2026

Genevieve Nelson [Alta Community Library]

It is shocking to me that legislators consider this kind of legislation against important school and community library partnerships, that encourage reading and literacy. Iowa Libraries are vital resources for cities and rural communities, serving in many ways beyond books. Don't make public libraries the enemy. VOTE 'NO'.

02-04-2026

Anita Christensen

Please vote NO on HSB636. We should be excited that we have the ability for schools to partner with public libraries to give students additional sources to books and information. Please do not take away the chance for smaller communities, underserved communities and students in general to have better access to information.

02-04-2026

Renate Bernstein

There is no point to this bill, it's an incredible waste of time. One of the best things that came out of COVID was the ability for students to have access to their school and public library through utilizing their student number. Access to reading materials shouldn't be up to the state legislature, it should be up to the child's guardian. Keep state government out of our family's reading choices. Maybe put some work into figuring why we're all getting cancer.

02-04-2026

Bob Gilbertson [Marshalltown High School]

I am writing to express my strong opposition to HSB 636. Prohibiting cooperative agreements between schools and public libraries, such as student ID integration and mobile library access, is another step backward for Iowas students. I ask you to consider the following points:*These agreements are lifelines for students who lack reliable transportation, home internet access, or the ability to visit a library.*Public library collections supplement school libraries. Restricting this access directly impacts student learning.*Maximize taxpayer investment. Sharing resourcessupport districts facing staffing/funding challenges*School and library boards should have communitydriven agreements. Decisions regarding these partnerships should remain at the local level.*Library policies already include optin/optout processes, ensuring parents have the ultimate say over the materials their children's access

02-04-2026

Emma Haynes [College Student & Future Librarian]

This bill limits children's access to resources and materials crucial for development and success. Students facing barriers, such as working parents, have less access to library services and materials. With this, school library programs coupled with the public expand their opportunities. With less access, comes less success. This will act as another barrier for literacy in our students!

02-04-2026

Bethany Melendy

Do not support this bill. My elementary school had a very small library, but partnered with our city library to ensure we had books to read. This bill harms small town schools and libraries, and is unnecessary. Stop trying to limit access to books. People are already functionally illiterate and youre making it worse with bills like this.

02-04-2026

Anita Christensen

02-04-2026

Carrie Heiting

Public libraries offer so many positive things for our local communities and schools. Their bookmobile partnership is something my children look forward to every month. This is an asset for schools who may not have a large library available at their school. Please vote no and protect the partnership between public libraries and schools.

02-04-2026

Karen Eldridge

I remember when Iowans were proud of their public education and now is Iowa is middling at best. And yet the legislature keeps passing laws that reduce funding and resources, further eroding the ability of schools to do their job and for students to access resources they need. Please stop. VOTE NO on this latest bill that provides no benefits to our educational system, but further hamstrings them.

02-04-2026

Jan Netolicky

Youve got to be kidding me. Restricting access to educational materials is unthinkable. Our libraries work hard to serve a diverse population. Why on earth would legislators want to limit availability of material that can inform, educate, and delight its citizens? Instead of creating solutions to problems that dont exist why dont you work on policies to benefit Iowans?

02-04-2026

Russell A Moore

Please vote NO for this bill! Books not only educate, they help people of all ages to feel and to stir their emotions. Books of all genres are friends for the lonely or to the child that feels sad. Books bring peace, joy and laughter to our young people.. To restrict what a child can or cannot read only hurts their ability to reason and think for themselves. Let parents be the ones to make choices for their children. They know whats best. Please vote No.

02-04-2026

Bridget Carberry Montgomery

I strongly oppose this billand urge all members of the subcommittee to vote no. When schools are funded at a rate that is less than inflation, they are forced to cut costs and unfortunately, school libraries are often at the top of the list for cost cutting measures. This forces our librarians to get creative in ensuring that students have access to educational resources they need. Utilizing resources available through public libraries makes sense.The Legislature should be encouraging school libraries and public libraries to collaborate when possible to promote efficiencies and reduce waste. This bill eliminates so many positive collaborations.

02-04-2026

Erin Coughlin

I oppose HSB 636 due to its overreach into local decisionmaking and the extra burden it will place on schools and communities to provide resources that were previously shared. These collaborations increase access without increasing costs and helps both schools and libraries service communities.

02-04-2026

Stacey Medd

Our democracy depends on libraries. Books give us the knowledge to stand on while reaching our potential like steps of a ladder. Limited budgets are already stretched so far that teachers need to buy many of their own materials. What would happen if we had to pay for all of the wonderful books to bring in to delight, inspire, teach, and challenge all of our wonderful students? This is the most undemocratic action possible.

02-04-2026

Laura McClure-Fleck

Allowing schools and public libraries to collaborate and share resources is essential in rural areas to provide full access for reading and instructional materials. For smaller communities budgetary constraints are a constant concern. Allowing the schools and local public libraries to collaborate provides the opportunity for larger collections and additional access to technology without duplicating efforts. If the school library and the public library share resources, the community of users and students benefit, but taxpayers benefit as well since there is no duplication of expense by housing two collections that might have significant overlap. This bill is a terrible constraint on students and rural communities, blocking their access to critical resources. It is designed merely to foster censorship, nothing else. It should be voted down immediately.

02-04-2026

Lisa Mellecker

This bill does nothing to improve our quality of life and only acts to make it more difficult for children to read books. In an age where we are constantly hearing about the literacy crisis, why on earth would you limit any avenue to get more kids reading?

02-04-2026

Jim Sherlock

A solution in search of a problem, HSB 636 is a performative and intellectually bankrupt piece of legislation, driven by authors who seem more interested in fighting imaginary culture wars than in fostering the literacy of Iowas children. By criminalizing the simple act of a bookmobile parking on school property and dismantling costeffective sharing agreements, the sponsors of this bill are prioritizing a misguided, paranoid crusade against "inappropriate" content over the actual educational needs of rural and underfunded districts. This bill is a direct betrayal of local control and fiscal responsibility, treating public librarians like a threat to be quarantined and effectively guaranteeing that the most vulnerable students in our state will have fewer resources, higher costs, and a smaller world.

02-04-2026

Kim Kietzman

As a working parent, having children able to access the public library in a way that's convenient and consistent is a huge support for literacy. Local departments should be able to determine for themselves what partnerships are in their best interests.

02-04-2026

Maria Moore

I STRONGLY OPPOSE this bill!Why is this legislature looking for more ways to remove access to education from the children of this state? A child's family and not the state should decide what their child can read or not read. We need to expand the ability of our children to access educational material, NOT limit it. Please vote NO

02-04-2026

Kimberly Hadaway

Please vote NO for this bill. These agreements between schools and public libraries increase access by reducing barriers for students who lack transportation, internet access, or family ability to visit the public library. My local library has a Bookmobile that helps in all of these ways and also allows folks access to bus passes and mobile hotspots for check out to further the impact.