Senate Bill 13 (SB 13) is a piece of legislation passed during the 89th Texas Legislature (2025–2026) that imposes new requirements on school libraries, particularly concerning the acquisition and review of library materials. The bill focuses on increasing transparency and parental oversight in the selection of books and other resources available to students.
The law requires school districts to adopt policies for the acquisition and removal of library materials that align with state guidelines.
https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/school-boards/sb13-guidance.pdf
The Lake Travis ISD School Library Advisory Council (SLAC) was established by the Board of Trustees to ensure that school libraries provide strong collections that support student achievement, meet state standards, and reflect community expectations. Meeting at least twice each year, the SLAC works with librarians and district staff to develop a recommended list of library materials for procurement, including donated titles. The Board reviews these recommendations, considers any proposed changes, and makes the final decision to approve or reject the materials. At least 30 days before the Board’s vote, the proposed list is made publicly available for parents and community members to review. The SLAC also recommends procedures for handling challenges to library materials and reviews challenges according to law before making recommendations to the Board. This process helps ensure transparency, parent involvement, and a strong library program that strengthens student achievement while nurturing a lifelong appreciation, habit and love of reading.
For questions or additional information regarding SLAC reviews or library material challenges, please contact Tasha Barker, watersbarkert@ltisdschools.org