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Library supporters and critics speak at Largo commission meeting; resident urges protection of library and intellectual freedom
Summary
During public comment at the April 15 meeting, a former Largo Public Library staff member urged the commission to continue supporting the library and intellectual freedom; another resident called for the city to abandon DEI policies and prioritize meritocracy. Commissioners later highlighted state library awards for city staff and volunteers.
During public comments at the April 15 Largo City Commission meeting, a longtime library worker urged the commission to continue supporting the Largo Public Library and its staff amid recent public challenges, while another resident criticized diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and called for a return to merit-based hiring.
Emily Schuler, who described herself as a former Largo Public Library staff member who worked in libraries for seven years, told commissioners she uses the library “my whole life” and asked the commission to “continue to advocate for Largo Public Library and intellectual freedom.” Schuler said she had seen an increase in hostile interactions and book challenges while she worked in libraries and that some critics “often didn’t live in Largo, let alone use our library.” She said the solution to those critics was not to “hide books away” and that parents retain the right to decide what material to check out for their own families without restricting access for others.
Glenn Schultz, a longtime Pinellas County resident who also spoke during public comment, criticized DEI efforts and urged the commission to “restore meritocracy” and drop DEI standards for city hiring and programming. Schultz said he believes DEI will not lead to a better society and argued the city should prioritize “trained professionals who know what they’re doing.” These remarks were presented as the speaker’s opinion during the public-comment period and did not trigger a formal hearing or commission action.
Commissioners later used their time for reports to announce recognition by the Florida Library Association: Melissa Bale, Largo’s children’s librarian, was named Florida Librarian of the Year for 2025, and longtime civic volunteer George Feaster received the association’s 2025 outstanding citizen award. Commissioners encouraged residents to attend the city’s Arbor Day tree giveaway and other library-related events.
Ending: No formal action on library materials, challenges or hiring standards was recorded during the meeting; the comments were part of the public-comment period and did not result in votes or directives recorded on the public transcript.
