Library Committee Sets Expectations

Newly seated Library Citizens’ Advisory Committee members met for the first time Monday evening. Committee Chair Chad Scott made it clear that the meeting was to be mostly informational. 

Though public comments were allowed, there was no call-in number for those who could not attend in person. Several members of the public spoke about their concern for materials deemed inappropriate for young readers. Others spoke about the need to focus on providing access to all readers. The Committee is set to address challenged books only for Borough Public Libraries.

Though three of the five Borough Public Libraries are in the Upper Valley in District 7, there are no representatives from that District on the Committee. Thirteen residents from District 7 applied. Chad Scott, a pastor in District 5, was nominated by District 7 Assemblymember Ron Bernier over any other applicants. 

Committee members will use a scorecard to provide feedback on challenged books. While some of the metrics focus on whether the book is in good condition, is factually correct, or depicts specific sex acts, other metrics are more subjective. For example, Committee members will need to determine if actual or simulated conduct in the book is offensive based on prevailing standards in the adult community as a whole on behalf of people under 16 years of age. Scorecards will be filled out during the meeting to keep the process transparent.

Any library patron may challenge a book, but the Committee will determine which challenged books they review. However, Committee members cannot challenge a book and then review it, as it would be an ethical violation.

Recommendations as to whether the book should remain on the shelves where it was, be shelved in the adult section, or be removed from the library entirely will go to the Borough Community Development Director. 

The Committee determined that challenged books that were completed by the previous iteration of the Committee could be challenged again. There are currently three challenged books for review: Identical, by Ellen Hopkins; Red Hood by Elana K. Arnold; and Damsel by Elana K. Arnold. The Committee selected Identical as their first book to review. 

The Committee will meet the second Monday of each month, pending approval from the Borough Clerk, who sets the calendars for public meetings.