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Closter Board gives first reading to updated resource, library and public-complaint policies
Summary
On Jan. 7 the Closter Board approved first readings of Policy 2530 (Resource Materials), Policy 2535 (Library Material) and Policy 9130 (Public Complaints) and their regulations; the texts cite N.J.S.A. 18A:34A provisions and outline selection, review and removal procedures for library and resource materials.
The Closter Board of Education voted Jan. 7 to approve the first reading of a package of policy updates addressing resource and library materials and the district—omplaint/grievance process. The board approved first reading of P 2530 (Resource Materials), P 2535 (Library Material), P 9130 (Public Complaints) and related regulations R 2530, R 2535 and R 9130.
Why it matters: The policies implement and reference state law (N.J.S.A. 18A:34A-1 through 18A:34A-7) that governs school library curation, the "Freedom to Read" standard, and procedures for review and removal of challenged materials. The packet included detailed language on definitions, the role of school library staff, the formation and responsibilities of review committees, and timelines for appeals to the Board and to the Commissioner of Education.
What the documents say: Policy 2535 emphasizes that library collections should represent diverse viewpoints and that censorship is prohibited; it requires a review process and spells out immunity for school library staff acting in good faith. Regulation R 2535 describes how a requester with a vested interest files a removal request and how a review committee is formed and reports to the Board. Policy 9130 and its regulation restate multi-level grievance steps and timelines for complaints about personnel, programs or materials.
Board action: The motion for first reading was moved by Mr. Paldi and seconded by Ms. Micera and was approved by roll-call vote (YEAS: Ms. Finkelstein, Ms. Micera, Ms. Argenziano, Mr. Paldi, Mr. Shih, Ms. Lee, Ms. Ravid). The first reading places the policies on the board—alendar for subsequent consideration and possible adoption at a future meeting.
Next steps: As a first reading, the policies remain subject to formal adoption at a later meeting after any required public notice or edits. The minutes include the full policy/regulation texts in Appendix A for public review.
