Our colleagues at the Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries have advised that the regulations under the Alberta Library Act have been published and include regulations affecting access to literary materials (books, comics, graphic novels etc.), video recordings (film, TV) and video games, and requiring policies for the use of library internet access and gaming systems in the library.
Please follow the Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries for ongoing updates.
CFLA is working with colleagues at library associations across the country to address concerns that decisions by the Alberta government could spread beyond the province, reducing the ability for public and school libraries to address the needs of their communities and removing local control over library collections. CFLA encourages libraries and their advocates to share the value of community-based boards setting policies to govern libraries and not moving choices about information access into the hands of senior levels of government.
The amendment can be reviewed at: https://kings-printer.alberta.ca/Documents/MinOrders/2026/Municipal_Affairs/2026_MSD045-26_Municipal_Affairs.pdf and the full regulation at: https://kings-printer.alberta.ca/1266.cfm?page=1998_141.cfm&leg_type=Regs&isbncln=9780779863945&display=html
The regulation provides a detailed definition of a sexual act and distinguishes this from contact related to medical conditions, biological functions, or kissing and handholding.
Affected library books, comics and other materials will be those containing a visual depiction of a sexual act. Beginning on January 1, 2027, those 15 years or younger will not be able to use or borrow these resources unless they have a parent or guardian’s permission. These materials will need to be kept separate from other resources, and library staff will be required to control access to verify age and permission.
The regulation also requires that libraries establish policies about the use of a library computer to access the internet or play video games by people under 15.
For libraries in schools, the library board must have a process so that individuals who wish to request review or removal of materials can do so, for the following people connected to the school: a student, parent or guardian of a student, employee or member of council of a school authority in the location, a holder of a library card, or a member of the public with a direct connection to the school. The library board will be required to regularly review the library resources to ensure they comply and provide reports to the minister on request.