Librarian advocates for controversial book amid community debate

November 12, 2024 | St. Joseph, School Districts, Missouri


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Librarian advocates for controversial book amid community debate
In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the controversial book \"Looking for Alaska\" by John Green, which has faced challenges in school libraries. Elizabeth Hoskins, a librarian at Vodie Middle School, passionately defended the book, emphasizing its importance in helping young adults navigate complex themes of grief, identity, and resilience.

Hoskins highlighted that while \"Looking for Alaska\" is not part of her library's collection, understanding challenged books is crucial for educators. She noted that Green has consistently advocated for the novel, which addresses difficult realities such as loss and underage drinking—issues that many students encounter in their lives.

The librarian expressed gratitude for authors like Green, who provide narratives that allow young readers to process their emotions and seek support systems in their lives. She urged the committee to uphold the decision of the review committee to keep the book available on high school shelves, encouraging families to engage in discussions about the literature their children are reading.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of approving the agenda, reflecting a collaborative spirit among the committee members. The decision to retain \"Looking for Alaska\" in school libraries underscores a commitment to fostering open dialogue about challenging topics among students and their families.

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