Yellowstone County Appoints Controversial Applicant to Library Board

Applicant Amanda Scheidler says she does not support book bans despite concerns from residents.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:20am

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A photorealistic oil painting depicting the warm, shadowy silhouette of a library book return drop box, symbolizing the quiet civic duty and public trust placed in local institutions.The appointment of a controversial figure to the local library board raises concerns about the future of intellectual freedom in the community.Billings Today

The Yellowstone County Commission has appointed Amanda Scheidler, a controversial applicant, to the Billings Public Library board. Scheidler's application statements had concerned many county residents, but she stated during the commission meeting that she is not in favor of banning books.

Why it matters

The appointment of Scheidler, who has made statements that worried local residents, to the library board raises concerns about the potential impact on intellectual freedom and access to information in the Billings community.

The details

In her application, Scheidler made statements that troubled many Yellowstone County residents. However, during Tuesday's commission meeting, she stated that she does not support banning books, which had been a key concern about her appointment.

  • The Yellowstone County Commission appointed Scheidler to the Billings Public Library board on April 15, 2026.

The players

Amanda Scheidler

The controversial applicant appointed to the Billings Public Library board by Yellowstone County.

Yellowstone County Commission

The county governing body that appointed Scheidler to the library board despite concerns from residents.

Billings Public Library

The local library system in Billings, Montana where Scheidler has been appointed to the board.

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What they’re saying

“I am not in favor of banning books.”

— Amanda Scheidler, Newly Appointed Library Board Member

What’s next

The Yellowstone County Commission will continue to monitor Scheidler's actions and statements as a member of the Billings Public Library board.

The takeaway

This appointment highlights the ongoing tensions around intellectual freedom and access to information in local communities, as well as the need for transparent decision-making by elected officials.