The ACLU of Arkansas has filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of Patty Hector, the former director of the Saline County Library, against Saline County Judge Matthew Brumley and Saline County. This lawsuit challenges Ms. Hector’s retaliatory termination after she publicly opposed censorship efforts in the library system, arguing that her firing violates her First Amendment rights.
Why This Case Matters
Public libraries are foundational to democracy, providing access to a broad range of ideas, information, and perspectives. Government officials should not dictate what books the public can or cannot read, nor should they silence library professionals who stand against censorship. Ms. Hector’s case is a stark example of government overreach — where a public servant was fired simply for upholding professional and constitutional principles.
Key Allegations
- Ms. Hector was unlawfully fired for speaking out against efforts to censor books in the Saline County Library.
- Her termination was a direct violation of her First Amendment rights, which protect public employees from retaliation for speaking on matters of public concern.
- The lawsuit also challenges the constitutionality of an ordinance that transferred firing authority from the Library Board to the County Judge, a move designed to target Ms. Hector specifically.
The Broader Impact
This case goes beyond one person — it sets a precedent for public employees statewide. Teachers, librarians, and other professionals should not have to choose between their livelihoods and their duty to serve the public’s right to access information. Censorship in libraries is a direct threat to democracy, and the ACLU of Arkansas is committed to fighting back.
