TLA Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Decision to Deny Appeal in Little v. Llano County First Amendment Case

The Texas Library Association (TLA) is disappointed that the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the appeal of the U.S Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal’s decision in the Little et.al. vs. Llano County First Amendment lawsuit.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals decision, which now stands and applies to the three states within its jurisdiction (Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi), holds that there is no First Amendment right to receive information in a public library.

This decision creates uncertainty and confusion for libraries as they face continued challenges and coordinated efforts to remove materials focused on race and gender from their collection.

TLA holds that the freedom to read is a human right, protected by the First Amendment, and that individuals have the right to free inquiry and the equally important right to form their own opinions.

TLA commends the plaintiffs in the Llano case and their attorneys for their courage and commitment to the first amendment.

TLA will continue to vigorously support and defend the right to read.