Payson Library addresses parental concerns over children's access to controversial books

The Payson Town Council held a regular meeting on May 28, 2025, where discussions centered around the operations and policies of the Payson Public Library, particularly regarding the library's adherence to the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights.

The meeting began with a presentation from the library staff, highlighting the qualifications of the five professional librarians employed at the library, all of whom hold master's degrees certified by the American Library Association. The librarians emphasized their commitment to providing a safe and compliant environment for all patrons, including children. They noted that the library had been in compliance with the Library Bill of Rights prior to its recent inclusion in the county contract, asserting that this addition had not changed library operations.

Concerns were raised by council members and community members regarding the potential exposure of children to inappropriate materials within the library. One council member expressed dismay over the lack of parental oversight in monitoring children's reading choices, advocating for increased parental engagement in discussions about literature. The librarian acknowledged the importance of parental guidance and expressed a willingness to facilitate conversations between parents and children about reading materials.

A specific incident involving a controversial book was discussed, with the librarian clarifying that the book had not been intentionally displayed in the children's section. Upon receiving a formal request for review, the librarian promptly removed the book from circulation, demonstrating responsiveness to community concerns.

The conversation shifted to the library's policy on programming and the use of library facilities by outside groups. The librarian explained that while various organizations, including those with differing viewpoints, could utilize the library's meeting rooms, these events did not constitute official library programming unless organized by library staff.

As the meeting progressed, some council members questioned the necessity of adhering to the Library Bill of Rights, suggesting that the town might opt out of this requirement. However, the librarian reiterated that compliance with the Bill of Rights is fundamental to the library's mission and the professional standards upheld by its staff.

In conclusion, the Payson Town Council meeting highlighted ongoing discussions about library policies, parental involvement in children's reading, and the balance between community standards and professional library ethics. The council plans to continue addressing these issues in future meetings, with an emphasis on fostering a collaborative environment between the library and the community.