San Angelo ISD School Board Approves New Library Book Policy

SAN ANGELO, TX — A San Angelo ISD parent urged trustees Monday to take a stronger stance on library books she described as explicit, speaking during public comments before the board adopted a new policy to comply with state law.

The speaker said she submitted materials including a letter, a book rating system, and lists of titles challenged across Texas. She said 10 or 11 books on her list are so explicit they are not allowed in the state’s prison system. “I would challenge each one of you to choose one of these books to read the excerpts from, and tell me if this is something that you would want your child or your grandchild to read,” she said.

She thanked the district for removing some books already but added, “There’s a lot more work to do. When I saw this morning that you were going to be talking about this, this evening, I thought, this is the time.”

Later in the meeting, trustees unanimously adopted EFB Local, a policy update required under Senate Bill 13. Deputy Superintendent Farrah Gomez said the policy emphasizes transparency, parent involvement, and safeguards against harmful or inappropriate materials.

Under the policy, the board must approve all new library materials, including donated books, after they are publicly posted for at least 30 days. Parents are recognized as the primary decision-makers for their children’s access to materials and may submit lists of books their own child is not allowed to check out.

Gomez further explained that the district’s librarians handle book selection but cannot realistically read every book cover to cover. Instead, they rely on training, professional standards, and vendor disclosures. Formal challenges will be reviewed by a district selection committee of educators, staff, parents, and community members.

Trustees raised concerns about the volume of book orders and their ability as volunteers to review materials. Gomez acknowledged the challenge and said timelines will be adjusted as needed to balance transparency with timely access for students.

The policy passed on a 7–0 vote.