The Special Library District Advisory Board meeting held on December 2, 2024, in Citrus County, Florida, featured a significant discussion regarding the removal of certain books from public library collections. The meeting began with a focus on the importance of maintaining diverse literature in libraries, emphasizing the need for careful consideration before any book is removed.

One board member, identifying as a pastor, expressed strong opposition to the removal of the Book of Song of Solomon from library shelves. He argued that the book, despite its explicit content, holds significant value and aligns with Christian teachings. He stated, "I would never want to remove it," highlighting the importance of preserving literature that may be deemed controversial by some.

The discussion also touched on the Miller test, which is often referenced in debates about literature in public schools. The board member clarified that the public library serves a different purpose than schools, suggesting that the criteria for book removal should not be the same. He emphasized that removing books solely based on their perceived offensiveness is not a sound policy.

In addition to the debate on book removal, the board member proposed the development of an automated system to audit library books. This system would assess the popularity and circulation of books, identifying those that are rarely checked out. He suggested that if a book is not being utilized, it may be appropriate to consider its removal to make space for more popular titles.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a strategic plan that balances the preservation of diverse literature with the practical considerations of library space and usage. The board agreed to further explore the implementation of an automated auditing system to enhance library management and ensure that collections remain relevant to the community's needs.