“I heard a lot of misinformation about gays and lesbians from community members at the meeting,” said ACLU of Wisconsin Youth and Programs Director Emilio De Torre. “Libraries are about intellectual freedom. I went to support those who want our libraries to be places that serve all community members young and old.”
Before the meeting was dismissed, informal discussion among the community members reflected divided opinions: some wanted gay-themed books to be removed entirely, while others argued for youth-oriented books to be moved to the adult section. Among those who supported youth rights, teachers and advocates wanted the age-appropriate materials to stay and remain available.
The discussion continues on-line. A free speech advocate posted a summary of the issue on the Motley Cow blog and has received comments that reflect the divided community opinions.
“Libraries need to follow policies that serve their communities,” said ACLU of Wisconsin Executive Director Chris Ahmuty. “Parents are responsible for guiding their own children’s use of the library. Censors should not pressure libraries to take away that responsibility and right from other parents. It is especially distressing when censorship may harm young people by denying them access to information.”
"Censoring gay-themed books or moving age appropriate materials to another more restrictive section would be a violation of First Amendment principles," Ahmuty concluded. "The ACLU of Wisconsin will continue to monitor development in West Bend closely.”
Please read about the Library Bill of Rights, a document that has guided the philosophy of the freedom and professionalism of libraries in democratic societies since 1948.
You can also read more about the work the ACLU is doing nationally on artistic freedom and as a part of the annual Banned Books Week.
