Nogales residents urge council to approve Mary Darling for library board amid debate over 'banned books' and inclusion

Community volunteers, educators and library officials told the Nogales City Council on Aug. 6 they support Mary Darling’s nomination to the Nogales‑Santa Cruz County Public Library board and defended the library’s programs against recent criticism.

‘‘The library is a very important asset of the city,’’ Brian Vanderboel said, identifying himself at the podium as chairman of the library board. Vanderboel described building repairs, programs for children and teens, and partnerships with local agencies; he endorsed Darling’s nomination.

Multiple speakers offered personal endorsements. Roxana Lopez, who said she volunteers with Friends of the Library, urged the council against book bans and described diversity, equity and inclusion as ‘‘about inclusion, color, race, food, dress’’ rather than a single issue. Educator Anne Doan and teacher Larry Frederick also testified in favor of Darling and described the library’s role in early literacy and community services.

At the same meeting, several residents expressed concerns about the mine and water issues (see separate reporting). Council members heard the library public comment during the same call‑to‑the‑public period.

Council action: The council voted to appoint Mary Darling to the library board at the Aug. 6 meeting. The motion passed (roll‑call reflected in minutes).

Context: Library board members described their body as an advisory, nonpartisan group ‘‘with no legal authority or responsibilities’’ and said the board does not hire staff or sign contracts. Vanderboel read from the board’s bylaws and emphasized the board’s ethics statement.

Ending: Councilors and library volunteers asked residents to visit neighborhood branches and noted the board will continue to solicit community input as it addresses building maintenance and programming needs.