Librarians face new challenges under controversial book policy

In a recent school board meeting, discussions centered around two significant topics: the new cell phone policy and a controversial proposal affecting school librarians.

One speaker commended the newly implemented cell phone policy, acknowledging the distractions caused by phones in classrooms. The speaker highlighted issues such as cheating and social media bullying, expressing hope that the introduction of computers for each student would enhance research capabilities and mitigate these problems.

The meeting also featured a passionate address from Lynette Aladon, a retired librarian, who raised concerns about a proposal requiring librarians to read every new fiction book and selected nonfiction titles in their entirety before submitting them for public review. Aladon argued that this requirement places an unreasonable burden on librarians, who already juggle multiple responsibilities, including teaching and technology support. She emphasized that the proposal could limit students' access to new books, particularly for those who may not have easy access to public libraries or the means to purchase books.

Aladon proposed reverting to a previous book selection policy that allowed librarians to rely on professional reviews to determine age-appropriate titles, thereby saving time and ensuring students have access to a diverse range of literature. She urged the board to reconsider the proposal, advocating for the importance of school libraries in fostering a love of reading and providing students with opportunities to engage with various perspectives.

The discussions reflect ongoing efforts to balance educational policies with the needs of students and educators, highlighting the critical role of libraries in supporting academic and personal growth.