Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Library Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board weighs proposed library book rating system; librarian urges careful review
Summary
Board members discussed a proposed library book rating system introduced by a community member; the district librarian described current selection procedures, said no elementary collections match flagged external lists, and the board agreed to form a group to review the district selection policy and potential endorsement.
The Moriarty-Edgewood School District board discussed a proposed endorsement of a library book rating system during its Nov. 18 meeting, debating whether the system should apply only to library collections, how parents would be notified, and technical limits such as AI-driven rating methods.
A community member had earlier presented the concept and cited proposed state-level interest. Board members asked whether a rating system would affect classroom materials as well as library holdings and whether parental involvement or consent would be required for access to certain materials.
The district librarian, speaking to the board, described the district’s existing purchase and review process and noted the online library catalog is publicly accessible so parents can see holdings. The librarian said, "There are no flagged books in our elementary schools that are on that list," referencing an external flagged-books list discussed in public comments. She also explained she consults at least two professional journals when evaluating purchases and generally takes a conservative stance for elementary collections.
Board members raised concerns about an AI-driven rating system, noting that prompts and inputs can materially affect automated scores. Several board members suggested assembling a committee or working group with staff and community members to review the district’s selection policy and any proposed endorsement before the board considers formal action.
No resolution or endorsement was adopted at the meeting. Staff and board members agreed to gather input, review the district selection policy and potential updates, and return with recommendations to the board.
