Concerns have emerged within our community regarding the accessibility of sexually explicit content in the children's section of our local library. This issue has prompted a call for a comprehensive reassessment of the books available to our young readers. It is essential to delve into this matter with sensitivity, understanding the various perspectives involved, including those of parents and educators, the ones who have the most impactful presence on the matter of learning within children.
We have found certain books that were deemed sexually explicit were readily available to children with no intent of informing parents and caregivers of the contents. When we have approached the library and followed necessary requirements to request a reevaluation of a book, we have been met with a devastating disparity.
Here is what needs to happen in order for public libraries to maintain a safe and nurturing environment for young readers: Age-appropriate content needs to be prioritized. Our concerns primarily revolve around ensuring that children are shielded from content that might be developmentally inappropriate and should inform parents and caregivers of the sexually explicit content before allowing their children to read the materials.
Frequently, we are accused of being "book-banners," a label we vehemently reject. Our request is not for the complete removal of books from the library but, instead, for their relocation to a designated section. In this section, parents, caregivers, and educators would be provided with information about any sexually explicit content, empowering them to make informed decisions before allowing children to access those materials. We advocate for the involvement of parents, caregivers, and educators in the decision-making process and assessment regarding the placement of books within the library.
We believe library officials play a crucial role in mediating between these viewpoints. They are tasked with creating an inclusive and welcoming space that caters to the needs of a diverse community. If library authorities disagree with a book flagged as inappropriate and sexually explicit, does that grant them the power to maintain easy accessibility to children? Should those who wield the most influence over a child's learning capabilities have the decisive say in the matter? We believe the latter.
Balancing the desire to protect children from potentially sensitive material with the desire to also slowly and appropriately expose them to diverse ideas and cultures is a delicate task. In our quest to foster an environment that nurtures young minds, it is crucial to engage in open dialogue, consider multiple perspectives, and work collaboratively towards a solution that respects the values and concerns of our community.
Let us remember the shared goal of creating a library that is not only a sanctuary for learning but also a place where the voices of our community are heard and respected, and where children can gather to be what they are meant to be: Children.
Leave Our Children Alone comprises concerned parents advocating for the relocation of sexually explicit material from public and school library systems to ensure it is not accessible to children without parental consent. Driven by passion, we aim to inspire others to join our movement and protect children from books that are not age appropriate.
Michele Allen is a member of Leave Our Children Alone.