HD 1221 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act addressing challenges facing public libraries and digital resource collections

HD 1221 prohibits publishers from including contract terms that prevent libraries from sharing license details with others or require violating patron privacy. It directly affects public libraries, publishers, and library patrons by ensuring transparency and protecting privacy in digital resource agreements. The bill also creates a special commission to study digital library costs, patron satisfaction, privacy practices, and state approaches, requiring a final report by December 2026. The commission will recommend actions to support diverse digital collections, improve access, and uphold libraries' mission in a digital era.
Bill status Introduction 0 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor