FIRST AMENDMENT: Must be balanced when children are involved

There are many swirling arguments where the First Amendment and sexually explicit library books are concerned. First Amendment free speech is a cornerstone of our liberty in the United States, but it must be carefully balanced where children are involved. Indeed, the Supreme Court has repeatedly declared there is a compelling state interest in protecting children from harmful materials. There is no constitutional reason school and community libraries cannot take reasonable steps to prevent minors from accessing harmful materials.

KATHERINE HARTLEY, attorney

Coeur d’Alene