Several public libraries in Tennessee have been temporarily closed as they work to comply with new state directives requiring the removal of certain children’s books, including ones with LGBTQ+ themes around gender. Local officials have described the closures as necessary to review collections for materials that may no longer meet state standards for age appropriateness. The move follows recent legislative efforts in Tennessee to expand restrictions on books and educational content related to gender identity and sexuality. State officials have not confirmed how many libraries are affected, but the closures have prompted debate among residents about how public institutions should balance state guidance with access to diverse reading materials. #Tennessee #LGBTQIA #USPolitics #gender #education #library #LGBTQNews