Libraries Mostly Off the Hook Regarding Lead in Books
CPSC says libraries not obligated to test books; policy awaited on older books
-- Library Journal, 09/03/2009
- Stay issued earlier this year
- No library testing required
- Further details coming re pre-1985 books
Earlier this year, librarians experienced enormous agita as the impending implementation of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) seemed to require testing of lead in children's books and could portend closure of children's sections.
However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a one-year stay on implementation of the law, and now has released a final rule. According to the American Library Association, "CPSC confirmed that libraries have no independent obligation to test library books for lead under the law. CPSC also announced its intention to release a Statement of Policy specifically providing guidance for libraries with regard to the treatment of older children’s books that could potentially contain lead." That, said ALA, should emerge within the next several weeks.
In the interim, ALA recommended that, if a library does believe a children’s book contains lead above the legal limits or otherwise poses a danger, it should be removed from public access, such as to a non-circulating collection.
Also, librarians who learn of books containing lead should let the ALA Washington Office know.
The Chairman's message
CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum stated, "The Commission also recognizes that testing and certification of books published prior to 1985 is not required for libraries and resellers because they do not typically manufacture or import children’s books. Because older children’s books did not use the modern CMYK printing process and some have been found to contain lead, the Commission was unable to make a determination that older books or their components do not exceed the CPSIA’s lead limits. The Commission continues to recognize that used children’s books that are sold as collectors items to adults would not be considered to be 'children’s products' as defined by the CPSIA because...such books would not be 'designed or intended primarily for children 12 years of age or younger.' Accordingly, these collector’s item books may be sold to adults. With respect to older children’s books that are lent out, the Commission intends to issue a separate statement of policy. It is my hope that this guidance will offer common sense solutions that alleviate undue burdens on those who lend older children’s books."
