Jacob Holmes

Jacob Holmes is a reporter. You can reach him at [email protected]

Local news

Library challenger running for Madison City Council

Rachel Homolak has made national news for her tactics challenging libraries in Missouri and Alabama.

June 6, 2025

Law takes effect requiring collection of immigrant biometric data

Enforcement of the law will be funded through new circuit and municipal court fees.

June 4, 2025

State of Alabama agrees to allow more vape products after federal suit

A new agreement following a federal suit greatly expanded the number of vape products convenience stores can continue to sell in Alabama.

June 3, 2025

Lumpkin kicks off campaign for House District 60

Lumpklin is looking to follow her aunt Sundra Escott Russell, the first African American woman elected to the Alabama Senate.

June 2, 2025

Embattled Prattville Pride group to host Pridefest Sunday

The group could not host the event in Prattville this year due to struggles reaching a rental agreement.

May 30, 2025

5th Circuit reverses injunction against Texas library that removed challenged books

Breaking with other circuit courts, the conservative 5th Circuit ruled plaintiffs have no right to receive information from libraries.

May 29, 2025

Clean Up Alabama leader wants “trans stuff” out of all libraries

Clean Up Alabama's leader, Hannah Rees, clarified her intent, stating that "trans stuff" should be removed entirely from all libraries — not just moved.

May 28, 2025

Autauga sheriff sues commission over jail conditions

The sheriff evacuated the jail a year ago, claiming mold threatened the health and safety of inmates and staff.

May 26, 2025

Read Freely celebrates legislative wins as bill to criminalize librarians dies

A bill that would allow for more local government control of library boards also failed to gain any traction during the session.

May 20, 2025

Alabama Library Association slams APLS board’s “dismissive” tone

ALLA also questioned the board's procedure for defining "sexually explicit" and urged them to withdraw the memo.

May 19, 2025