Library redemption

If you know me, you know I love to read. I love books.

I love the library.

I couldn’t believe that when we moved to Waverly, our little town had no library of it’s own. 

Yet.  But that’s another post.

But last Monday, I was flabbergasted at what my boys showed me on display at a branch of  the Lincoln CityLibrary.  I wrote about it at Momaha.com.

But in all fairness to the Lincoln City Libraries, I sent them an e-mail to hear their “official” stance on the issue.

Here’s what I wrote:

On Monday night, I was returning our books with my two sons, ages 6 and 8.  

As I was checking out, they kept telling me to come over and see the funny picture. 

On the New Release stand, was the above mentioned book, in full display at the eye-level of two kids under 4-feet tall. 

 

I understand the concept of library, and books, and I really appreciate all the services you provide for me and my children. 

 

However, I don’t understand why a book with two naked women on the cover should be displayed just because it is a new release. 

 

Is this common for all new releases? Is it up the discretion of the branch librarians?  Any feedback would be appreciated. 

Sincerely,

Judy Daniell

Within minutes I recieved an e-mail letting me know that the matter was being sent to the director of the Lincoln City Libraries.

Here’s the response:

Your email below was forwarded to me.

I’m sorry that your experience at the library wasn’t what you had hoped for, and I very much appreciate your calling your concern to our attention.

Although you’re probably aware that the library owns a very wide variety of materials, we typically ask our public service staff to use judgment in terms of what items are placed on display, and where.

I will review this with staff at Anderson Library, and also with our Management Team the next time that we meet.

Again, I appreciate your calling this to my attention; I know that takes an added measure of time and effort. It’s important to us so that we can respond and always improve.

Yours–Pat

I feel a lot better that it was more an error in judgement rather than a matter of equal display for all types of material. 

Whew.

But I learned a good lesson in treading carefully when it comes to the innocence of my kids.