A legal battle has erupted between a Louisiana librarian and a self-proclaimed library watchdog from New Jersey, capturing the attention of educators and free speech advocates alike. Amanda Jones, an elementary school librarian, filed a defamation lawsuit against Dan Kleinman in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana on November 26, 2024. Jones accuses Kleinman of conducting a targeted harassment campaign against her through his blog and social media platforms.
The complaint details how Kleinman, who runs a blog called SafeLibraries, has repeatedly accused Jones of inappropriate conduct over the past two years. He has labeled her as someone who "sexualizes" children by allegedly providing them with adult-themed books such as "Spanking for Lovers" and "The Ultimate Guide to Kink." Furthermore, he has gone so far as to call her a "child groomer" and a "domestic terrorist," allegations that Jones vehemently denies. The lawsuit states that these false claims have caused significant harm to Jones's personal and professional reputation.
Kleinman's campaign against Jones included appearing on Louisiana talk radio shows, attending events in Louisiana where he spoke about her, and contacting her employer at Live Oak Middle School. He even urged local authorities to revoke her teaching certificate. The lawsuit highlights how Kleinman's actions have been directed specifically at a Louisiana audience, including elected officials in the state.
Jones's legal team argues that Kleinman's statements are not only false but also maliciously intended to damage her reputation. They cite previous court rulings emphasizing that false statements hold no constitutional value and can be subject to legal action. By filing this lawsuit, Jones aims not only to seek justice for herself but also hopes it will deter Kleinman from targeting other librarians across the country.
In terms of relief sought, Jones is asking for compensatory damages exceeding $75,000 for the defamation she has suffered. She also demands any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court. The case underscores ongoing tensions around freedom of speech versus protection from harmful misinformation in today's digital age.
Representing Amanda Jones are attorneys Alysson Mills from New Orleans and Kaja Elmer from Fishman Haygood LLP. The case is presided over by Judge Brian A. Jackson under Case ID 3:24-cv-00972-BAJ-SDJ.