Supporters of the legislation believe it is essential for maintaining access to diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of inquiry.

PEN America reported over 10,000 book bans nationwide during the 2023-2024 school year, highlighting the urgent need for legislation like House Bill 119.

It also includes protections for library employees who follow established collection development policies, shielding them from political pressure.

A newly-formed School Library Review Committee will oversee disputes regarding material removal, including representatives from various educational and library organizations.

Appeals regarding public library materials will be managed by the Delaware Library Consortium Public Libraries Policy Steering Committee or the Council on Libraries, with the State Librarian making the final decision.

The act establishes clear guidelines for handling book challenges, promoting transparency in the review process.

The legislation mandates that libraries and schools adopt policies affirming intellectual freedom, prohibiting the removal of books based on personal or ideological objections.

Senate Majority Whip Elizabeth Lockman has criticized federal initiatives aimed at book censorship, advocating for the protection of diverse opinions.

Delaware has introduced House Bill 119, known as the Freedom to Read Act, to combat the rising trend of book bans in public libraries and schools.

This act aims to protect students' rights to access a diverse range of literature, ensuring educational institutions remain places of open inquiry.

Delaware State Librarian Dr. Annie Norman emphasized the importance of books as safe spaces for learning, stating, 'Kids who read succeed!'

Advocates argue that the act is necessary due to a significant rise in book challenges and bans targeting various genres and themes.