Spanish Fort residents urge library board to maintain access to controversial books

The Spanish Fort Library Board meeting held on May 5, 2025, addressed significant concerns regarding proposed policy changes affecting book accessibility for children and young adults. The meeting featured a series of public comments from community members, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open access to diverse literature in the library.

The first speaker, who expressed strong opposition to the proposed restrictions, highlighted the potential benefits of certain books for older teens, arguing that access to information is crucial for their safety and well-being. This sentiment was echoed by Christy McClellan, a local resident and frequent library patron, who shared her extensive experience in the library. McClellan stated that she had not encountered any books with explicit content in the children's or young adult sections and argued against moving such books to a separate area. She emphasized the role of parents in monitoring their children's reading choices and urged the board to reconsider the proposed changes.

Dr. Kathleen Heath, a therapist with decades of experience, also voiced her concerns about censorship and the pressure being placed on library boards. She underscored the importance of education in preventing abuse and highlighted the need for children to receive accurate information about their bodies. Heath noted that the focus should be on the media and technology that children are exposed to, rather than restricting access to books.

Throughout the meeting, speakers consistently advocated for parental responsibility in guiding children's reading choices rather than imposing restrictions that could limit access to valuable resources. The discussions reflected a broader concern about censorship and the role of libraries in providing diverse and age-appropriate literature.

As the meeting concluded, the board was urged to consider the implications of their policy decisions on community access to information and the importance of fostering an environment where parents can make informed choices for their children. The board's next steps regarding the proposed policy changes remain to be seen, as community members continue to advocate for open access to literature in the Spanish Fort Library.