The Montana State Library Commission made history this week by becoming the first state library commission to sever its relationship with the American Library Association (ALA). This decision stems from concerns over ALA President Emily Drabinski's self-proclaimed Marxist beliefs.
Montana State Library Commissioner Tamara Hall explained that Drabinski's ideology clashes with the commission's oath to uphold both the U.S. and Montana Constitutions. She emphasized that the vote reflects the commission's commitment to prioritizing Montana's interests and ensuring accountability within the state's libraries and educational systems.
Hall expressed concern that public education and library systems are being leveraged to promote potentially harmful ideologies and materials to children. She highlighted the commission's belief that these institutions must be answerable to their communities.
The 5-1-1 vote marks a significant turning point, making Montana the first state to formally disassociate from the ALA. Commissioner Brian Rossman cast the sole dissenting vote, while Commissioner Peggy Taylor abstained. The catalyst for this decision was a now-deleted tweet from Drabinski in 2022, where she proudly identified as a Marxist lesbian. The commission's motion to withdraw directly referenced this tweet, stating that their oath of office precluded association with an organization led by a Marxist.
The decision faced opposition from some librarians who argued that the ALA is nonpartisan and provides vital resources and training to libraries nationwide. Rossman also criticized the move as an overreaction to an individual's political views. However, Commissioner and Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen, who supported the withdrawal, suggested that the commission could re-establish ties with the ALA in the future if the organization's leadership or direction changes.
Drabinski responded to the news on Twitter, expressing her disagreement with the commission's decision. Hall, meanwhile, framed the vote as a wake-up call for Americans, particularly parents, to scrutinize the institutions influencing their children. She expressed concern that some leaders within these institutions may not adhere to the principles of the U.S. Constitution. Hall further contended that conservative, Christian voices are being suppressed within these institutions. She described the vote as a necessary statement to uphold Montana's values.
