A former Arkansas librarian is taking a stand against what she calls an attack on free speech, filing a lawsuit after being fired for refusing to censor children’s books.

Patty Hector, 64, who previously served as the director of the Saline County Library, argues that her termination violated her First Amendment rights.

Hector’s dismissal came after County Judge Matthew Brumley decided to remove her from her position in October 2023.

This followed an April resolution passed by the Saline County Quorum Court, which demanded that all materials in the children’s section be reviewed for “age-appropriate” content.

Hector had been vocal in opposing the ruling, calling it an attempt to limit access to literature deemed controversial.

Community Backlash and Political Pressure

Initially, Hector had the backing of the library board, and there was no indication that her job was in danger.

However, as the censorship debate intensified, community members launched a campaign against her.

Billboards calling for her removal appeared throughout the county, reflecting growing opposition to her stance.

Then, in August 2023, the court gained new authority to make personnel changes within the library system.

Two months later, Brumley fired Hector, stating simply that she was “no longer needed by the county.”

Legal Battle Over First Amendment Rights

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Arkansas has stepped in to support Hector, filing a lawsuit on her behalf.

The complaint claims that her firing was an act of retaliation for defending intellectual freedom and opposing censorship.

“Standing up against censorship should never cost someone their job,” said John Williams, the ACLU’s legal director.

“Ms. Hector was fired for defending the right to read freely and for refusing to let political pressure dictate the operation of a public library.

This is not only unconstitutional but an attack on the core values of free expression.”

In her legal filing, Hector demands that the county and Brumley formally acknowledge that her constitutional rights were violated.

She is also seeking financial compensation for lost wages and emotional distress.

Hector Stands Her Ground

Reflecting on her experience, Hector emphasized her lifelong dedication to making libraries inclusive spaces.

“I’ve spent my career ensuring that public libraries provide access to diverse perspectives,” she said.

“I couldn’t stay silent as calls for censorship targeted marginalized communities.

Losing my job was devastating, but I refuse to let this go unchallenged.”

Beyond her personal grievance, the lawsuit also challenges the authority granted to Brumley over the library system.

The ACLU argues that the case could have broader implications for public employees across the state.

“This lawsuit goes beyond one individual—it’s about setting a precedent for teachers, librarians, and other professionals who should never have to choose between their livelihood and their duty to serve the public’s right to information,” the ACLU stated.

Book Banning Debate Continues Nationwide

The issue of book censorship is not unique to Arkansas.

Nationwide, there has been a growing trend of book bans, particularly targeting works featuring LGBTQ+ themes, racial issues, or mature content.

According to PEN America, a nonprofit advocating for free expression, over 10,000 instances of book bans were recorded across 29 states and 220 school districts between July 2023 and June 2024.

In Arkansas, the debate escalated with the introduction of Act 372, a law that would have made it possible to prosecute librarians and booksellers for providing “harmful” materials to minors.

However, in December 2024, a federal judge ruled that banning books was unconstitutional, blocking Act 372 from being enforced.

Hector, who has long been an advocate for free access to books, even launched a political campaign for a seat on the Saline County Quorum Court in 2024.

Although she lost the race, she remained committed to fighting for intellectual freedom.

Looking Ahead

While Brumley has declined to comment on the lawsuit, Hector’s legal battle is likely to have lasting implications for public libraries and free speech advocates across the country.

“This isn’t just about me,” Hector said. “It’s about ensuring that public spaces remain places of knowledge, learning, and freedom for everyone.”

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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