Illinois lawmakers hope to pass a plan to create new protections for library staff following a recent rise in violent threats. There were at least 22 bomb threats made against libraries across the state during 2023 that required response from local and state police.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois lawmakers hope to pass a plan to create new protections for library staff following a recent rise in violent threats.

There were at least 22 bomb threats made against libraries across the state during 2023 that required response from local and state police.

"Libraries had to close their doors while law enforcement cleared the buildings," said Rep. Anne Stava-Murray (D-Naperville). "Law enforcement agencies from the city of Chicago and its suburbs to Springfield spent time and resources sweeping the buildings and ensuring public safety."

Sponsors and advocates told the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee Thursday that lawmakers should strive to protect and keep open the state's libraries that serve the most vulnerable populations of children, seniors and the unhoused.

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FILE - Banned books are stacked at an exhibit at the American Library Association's annual conference, June 24, 2023, at McCormick Place in Chicago.  (AP Photo/Claire Savage, File)

The Illinois Library Association and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias (D-Illinois) believe libraries and public employees should have the same protections against threats and harassment that currently exist for schools and elected officials.

"These threats are vile. They are violent, and they are very scary," said Amy Williams, legal counsel for the Secretary of State's office. "They know where we work. They know our names, and it would not take anybody too long to come and find us at those jobs."

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House Bill 4567 could require offenders to reimburse first responders for the cost associated with response to the threats. The proposal would also allow law enforcement to take action against threats made against libraries electronically or via social media.

People making threats to libraries would be charged with a Class 3 felony for their first offense and a Class 2 felony if they make multiple threats.

While lawmakers on both sides of the aisle believe these threats need to be stopped, some Democrats are concerned about raising the penalty for this type of crime.

"I think we've been very critical of arguments in the past that enhancing penalties around certain types of behavior is an effective way of making sure that behavior doesn't happen," said Rep. Will Guzzardi (D-Chicago).

This plan passed out of the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee on a 12-3 vote Thursday. State representatives could potentially vote on the plan when they return to Springfield next week.

"We have seen an escalation of violence seeking to censor and restrict information," Giannoulias said. "This is harmful, not only to these public servants, but to our democracy as a whole. In the face of these threats, this bill highlights the commitment of our state to protecting library workers, access to information and the free exchange of ideas."

The Illinois General Assembly is scheduled to adjourn on May 24.

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