HB 1055 Summary

• Brings forward Mississippi Code sections 39-3-1 through 39-3-369 relating to public libraries, the Mississippi Library Commission, the Interstate Library Compact, library materials security, and the statewide library development system for possible amendment.

• Authorizes counties to levy up to 4 mills and municipalities to levy up to 3 mills in property tax for public library support, with exemptions from revenue increase limitations.

• Establishes governance structure with 5-member boards of trustees (or 6 in certain Gulf Coast counties) appointed by county or municipal authorities to manage and control public library systems.

• Creates the Mississippi Library Commission composed of 5 members appointed by the governor to provide oversight, develop statewide planning, offer professional guidance, and administer state aid to accredited library systems.

• Enacts the Interstate Library Compact to enable interstate cooperation and joint library services, and establishes criminal penalties (fine up to $500 and/or up to 6 months imprisonment) for unauthorized removal or willful mutilation of library materials.