Board votes to retain 'Viral' for middle and high school libraries after extended debate
Summary
After public comment and a committee review, the Francis Howell board voted to retain the book Viral 'without restriction' at participating middle and high schools, while clarifying parental notification and library opt-out processes.
The Francis Howell Board of Education voted to retain the book Viral in district libraries for middle and high school students after extended public comment and staff presentations.
A board member moved to "retain the material without restriction," meaning the title will remain available at the middle- and high-school levels that currently hold copies. Committee members who reviewed the book reported mixed reactions but recommended retention; at least one committee member noted the review committee voted to retain.
Patrons and some trustees expressed concern about graphic content and whether younger middle-school students are prepared to handle descriptions of death and disease. Supporters emphasized the book’s historical and educational value, comparing its content to other serious historical topics often taught in schools.
District staff clarified that parent notification and opt-out mechanisms remain in place: parents can contact the lead librarian, sign up for checkout notifications in Destiny, and request that a specific book not be made available to their child. The board discussed how retention does not remove existing parental safeguards; a library staff member said parents can sign up to receive emails about what their child checks out.
On a roll-call vote the motion to retain Viral "without restriction" passed (roll-call votes recorded in the transcript). The board did not adopt broader restrictions on the title at this meeting.
