Citrus County's Special Library District Advisory Board faced a heated debate on December 2, 2024, regarding the placement of a controversial book in the library's young adult section. The board ultimately decided to keep the book in its current location after a failed motion to move it to the adult section.

The discussion began with board members and community members expressing their opinions on the appropriateness of the book for young readers. Supporters of keeping the book in the young adult section, including retired teacher Sheila Regan, emphasized the importance of providing access to diverse materials for young learners. Regan argued that many young people may not feel comfortable discussing certain subjects with adults, making it crucial to have these resources available.

Conversely, some board members expressed concerns about the book's content, suggesting it might not be suitable for the young adult audience. One board member, reflecting on their role as a parent, voiced a desire to know what their child is reading and supported the motion to move the book to the adult section. However, after a vote, the motion to relocate the book failed, with a tally of five against and four in favor.

Following the failed motion, the board quickly moved to propose a new motion to keep the book in the young adult section. This motion was met with additional public comments, with several speakers advocating for the expertise of librarians in determining the appropriate categorization of books. Ultimately, the board voted to maintain the book's current placement, reinforcing the library's commitment to providing a range of materials for young adults.

This decision highlights the ongoing dialogue within the community about the balance between protecting young readers and ensuring access to diverse literature. As the board continues to navigate these discussions, the implications for library policy and community standards remain significant.