MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. – May 1 – Maricopa County Library District (MCLD) is excited to launch a new parental choice pilot program at the Queen Creek Library, designed to support and empower parents who want to take an active role in their child’s library experience.
“This innovative program provides families with a tool to manage their child’s access to specific books, ensuring content reflects their family’s values and preferences,” said Chairman Thomas Galvin, District 2. “I have been working on this issue for several years, and as a parent myself, I’m happy that Maricopa County has identified a process that honors the unique needs of each family unit without limiting the choices of others.”
Similar to the parental control features used on phones and tablets, this pilot program gives parents the option of greater oversight by allowing parents to identify specific book titles they do not want their child to access. Restrictions will then be applied to the child’s library account, preventing those titles from being checked out or accessed digitally.
“We’re focused on fulfilling the mission of the county library—to provide access and services that enhance residents’ quality of life,” said Supervisor Mark Stewart, who represents Queen Creek and the rest of District 1. “That’s why this program is a common-sense initiative that establishes guardrails to protect children—similar to a movie rating system.”
"We are excited to partner with the Maricopa County Library District to pilot the Parental Choice program at the Queen Creek Library,” said Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley. “We appreciate the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors for listening to our residents, and we’re grateful to the Library District for creating a program that empowers parents to be actively involved in the content their children access. This will be a useful program for our families, and I’m thankful that our community was chosen to lead this pilot."
The pilot program is only for parents or legal guardians with a library account that is linked to their child’s account. Parents and guardians must visit Queen Creek Library in person to complete the form, restricting their child’s access to specific titles. While there’s no limit to how many individual books can be restricted, the program does not allow parents or guardians to block access to entire categories or age levels.
“Maricopa County Library District remains committed to offer an extensive collection to communities,” said Jeremy Reeder, MCLD Director. “During this pilot, we’ll evaluate what’s working and what’s not, incorporate feedback from visitors, and then determine whether it makes sense to offer this tool at other county libraries.”
