A look at new rules for school library books and what won’t be allowed on shelves

The Alberta government is putting new rules in place for school libraries starting Oct. 1.

The province says young students shouldn’t be exposed to inappropriate sexual content. The rules don’t amount to a ban, it says, but will see books removed from shelves if school officials determine their content violates standards.

Here’s a look at the classifications:

Grades K-9

Non-sexual content will be accessible, including topics on puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, biological functions, kissing or handholding.

Explicit sexual content, or detailed and clear depictions of sexual acts — including masturbation, penetration and ejaculation — won’t be accessible.

Non-explicit sexual content or depiction of a sexual act that is not detailed or clear won’t be accessible.

Grades 10-12

Non-sexual content will be accessible, including topics on puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, biological functions, kissing or handholding.

Explicit sexual content or detailed and clear depictions of sexual acts — including masturbation, penetration and ejaculation — won’t be accessible.

Non-explicit sexual content or depiction of a sexual act that is not detailed or clear will be accessible if developmentally appropriate.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 10, 2025.