What does Preamble of Books Save Lives Act do?

This bill, formally titled 'To require certain libraries to maintain a diverse collection of books, and for other purposes,' aims to require specific libraries to maintain a diverse collection of books. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 9, 2026.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Books Save Lives Act do?

This bill is formally titled Books Save Lives Act

What does ACCESS TO LIBRARIES AND DIVERSE BOOKS. of Books Save Lives Act do?

Covered schools are required to maintain a library staffed by a trained librarian. Public libraries receiving federal financial assistance and libraries of covered schools must maintain a diverse collection of books. This diverse collection should include books written or illustrated by members of underrepresented communities. The collection should also include books about underrepresented communities. Exclusion of books from a covered school or library that disproportionately impacts books about or by underrepresented groups may be considered prima facie evidence of discrimination under existing civil rights laws.

What does REPORT ON BOOK BAN CAMPAIGNS. of Books Save Lives Act do?

This section requires the Comptroller General of the United States to create a report. The report must address the effect of recent campaigns to ban books in public libraries and public schools. The report's focus is on the impact on underrepresented communities. The report must be initiated within 180 days of the Act's enactment.

What does DEFINITIONS. of Books Save Lives Act do?

This section defines key terms used throughout the Act. A 'covered book' is defined as a book or educational media featuring an individual from an underrepresented community. A 'covered school' is an elementary or secondary school receiving federal financial assistance. The terms 'elementary school,' 'local educational agency,' and 'secondary school' are defined by reference to section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. An 'underrepresented community' includes groups protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the Education Amendments of 1972. Examples of underrepresented communities include racial or ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, religious minorities, and individuals with disabilities.

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Books Save Lives Act

Last updated: 4/9/2026 · Introduced: 4/9/2026

Author: Ayanna Pressley (D-MA)

TL;DR (AI)

Covered schools are required to maintain a library staffed by a trained librarian and a diverse collection of books, including those written or illustrated by members of underrepresented communities.
Public libraries receiving federal financial assistance must also maintain a diverse collection of books, and exclusion of certain books may be considered evidence of discrimination under existing civil rights laws.
The Comptroller General of the United States is required to create a report on the impact of recent book ban campaigns in public libraries and schools on underrepresented communities.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

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