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Ephraim library director reports complaints over display; board affirms selection policy
Summary
Library director reported complaints from community members about a June display with colorful adult books some called LGBTQ‑themed; the board discussed the concern and the director said staff will keep books available but be sensitive and encourage patrons to raise issues directly.
During director reports Michael Thompson told the board he had heard complaints about a June "Color Our World" display. "A lot of the books that we picked... happened to be LGBTQ books," Thompson said, recounting messages received through staff. He said complaints reached staff via the grapevine and that city council and the mayor "never heard about the complaints."
Thompson told trustees the display was not intended as a Pride or targeted LGBTQ display and emphasized that staff will not remove books from circulation or monthly displays based on those complaints. He said the library director’s practice is to invite people who have concerns to speak with staff or the director directly so issues can be addressed promptly.
Board members expressed understanding of both the need to present varied materials and the sensitivity some residents feel. The discussion resulted in no change to collection policy at the meeting; the director noted the library had updated its internet and privacy policies earlier in the year and said policy clarifications could be scheduled for future meetings if necessary.
The board took no formal disciplinary or collection removal action; the record shows discussion and direction to continue current practice while being attentive to community concerns.
