Florida Counties Eliminating Libraries and Librarians

Clay County is considering eliminating school libraries entirely, and Palm Beach County fired all 76 media specialists to save $3.3M. These moves are framed as modernization or budget cuts but effectively dismantle access to books after hundreds of challenges. A new local election story in Clay County reveals incumbent school board member Hanson proudly claims credit for removing nearly 500 titles, while challenger Rathjen acknowledges an 'overcorrection' but still supports parental control; the budget crisis from vouchers adds another layer.