The "Protecting Childhood Innocence in Libraries Act" aims to ensure that children's sections in public and taxpayer-funded libraries in Arkansas are free from sexually explicit materials. The bill mandates that these libraries take reasonable steps to prevent such materials from being accessible on open shelving within children's areas. Additionally, sex education materials are restricted from open shelving but can be accessed by children aged twelve and under upon parental request. The act emphasizes the rights of parents to control their children's exposure to sexual content and the importance of providing age-appropriate materials in library settings.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a private cause of action for parents or guardians whose children encounter sexually explicit material in library sections designated for children. They can seek damages and injunctive relief against libraries that fail to comply with the law, with a two-year statute of limitations for filing such actions. The legislation also defines key terms, including "age-appropriate material," "children's library section," and "sexually explicit material," to clarify the scope and intent of the law.