Vigilance
Those evil Republicans are at it again: they're censoring the books in our school libraries.
We have a history of banning books. Banning books is frowned upon by the vast majority of our citizens. Traditional Americans actually support the First Amendment.
Parents have finally awakened from their slumber. School districts that claim that children in their care belong to them was a wake up call.
During my last ten years in public education, I was the Somerville district librarian. As I had as a twenty-five year classroom teacher, I tried to act on the behalf of parents who trusted me to reflect their values when working with their children.
John Kennedy, Louisiana senator, read aloud one example of a book in some of our elementary school libraries…everyone was embarrassed…even Democrats. Thanks, John.
How does an obviously inappropriate book find its way to elementary library shelves?
When I had the responsibility of purchasing books for our three libraries, I found the most efficient source of purchasing books specifically made available for the various ages of children were major publishing companies which annually chose groups of books that various organizations chose as the best books available for that year.
During the first eight years of my time as district librarian, this practice was efficient and served the school district very well. I would review each book to assure me that the books were appropriate for grade levels. Invariably the books were appropriate and acceptable.
During my last two years as district librarian, I was shocked to find that some books…well, were obviously inappropriate for our libraries.
One book I recall was a book of beautiful photographs: however, it included photographs of nudes. It was my judgment that parents would object to the inclusion of the book on the library shelves.
My solution to the perceived problem was to allow the book to continue on our computer records which meant that students had access to possibly check the book out, but I housed the book in my office which meant that if a student wanted access to the book, he or she would need to approach me to possibly have access to the book. This book was part of a high school package.
Much more alarming was a book which came as part of an elementary group. I do not recall the exact subject of the book, but I do recall that it was sexual in nature. It was my judgment that the book was inappropriate for our elementary students, and it was difficult for me to imagine a parent approving this book. I used the same procedure for this book as I did with the high school photographic book, and, of course, I informed the elementary aide librarian of my actions.
We can keep our libraries stocked with only appropriate books, but it will require vigilance.
In the meantime, twenty years have passed. I am confident that the problems caused by the book publishers is much more problematic today.
Vigilance is the answer.
enough