Library policies addressed

DAYTON–All requests for reconsideration of materials have been completed, none were found to be in violation of the Dayton Memorial Library's collection development policy and have been returned to the shelves, Library Director Todd Vandenbark informed the Library Board at its November 28 meeting.

An accommodation was made to shelve educational picture books in a new section of the children's library away from other early reader books intended for parents to read together with their children on subjects like race, sex, and gender.

Vandenbark addressed the continued concern about content in the children's library ahead of the general public comment segment of the meeting by reading in full a statement on book censorship by the American Library Association (ALA), which states that those who oppose books are proposing "that the voices of the marginalized have no place on library shelves" and are "demanding the censorship of books and resources that mirror the lives of those who are gay, queer, or transgender, or that tell the stories of persons who are Black, Indigenous or persons of color. Falsely claiming that these works are subversive, immoral, or worse, these groups induce elected and non-elected officials to abandon constitutional principles, ignore the rule of law, and disregard individual rights to promote government censorship of library collections.

"Some of these groups even resort to intimidation and threats to achieve their ends," Vandenbark continued, "targeting the safety and livelihoods of library workers, educators, and board members who have dedicated themselves to public service, to informing our communities, and educating our youth. ALA strongly condemns these acts of censorship and intimidation."

The statement further noted the ALA's commitment to defending freedoms, particularly the freedom to read at this time when it is being threatened.

All but one of several comments made in opposition to the books requested the sexually explicit books be moved to the adult section of the library. Only one commenter suggested the removal of the explicit materials. The question was asked why one of the most challenged books for adolescents that is sexually explicit, "What's the T?" was chosen for a book club. The book delves into what it is to be transgender and covers sexual instruction in graphic detail. Vandenbark answered that the book was chosen because it was requested.

Several comments were made expressing appreciation for the work Vandenbark is doing and in support of the library's diverse collection.

A change in the collection development policy was initiated by Vandenbark to limit the time for reviewing books from two months to 30 days when a request for reconsideration of materials is made. He also added the requirement that the patron must have also reviewed the material in entirety before the director will review it.

Board member Chuck Beleny suggested they remove the finality of a review where it states that once a book is reviewed, it can never be reviewed again, but Vandenbark and other board members answered that complaints will be acknowledged, but a formal review will not be repeated.

It was emphasized that the Director be approached first with any complaint. Beleny also requested the Board be notified for every complaint made on a title to which other board members agreed.

The district anticipated 2023 revenue is $490,000, expenditures $507,000, with a beginning cash balance of $332,400. Salaries and benefits are $213,000. Capital projects include carpet replacement, Delany Room furniture and converting an abandoned rest room to useable space.