TNLA 2025 Conference

"Library professionals have long been advocates for intellectual freedom, equitable access to information, and policies that help support their patrons and communities. For Tennessee librarians and library workers who are employed by the state or by institutions receiving state funding, the Little Hatch Act imposes legal boundaries on political activities. Understanding these boundaries is vital to ensuring that library workers’ advocacy efforts remain both effective and compliant with applicable legislation.
In this session, presenters will provide a basic overview of the Little Hatch Act and other relevant laws and regulations that put restrictions on Tennessee library workers’ political expressions, including what activities are or are not allowed and in what contexts. Attendees will gain insight into how these laws impact activities on social media, in political campaigns, and for engaging in legislative advocacy. We will cover real-world scenarios to illustrate some of the subtler points of the regulations and highlight the fine line between professional advocacy and prohibited political activity, with the goal of helping library professionals navigate these distinctions with confidence.
Whether you are a library director, a staff member, or a library school student, we invite you to join us for the presentation with your concerns or questions, and we will endeavor to equip you with the knowledge to advocate for libraries and library patrons–without jeopardizing your position."