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Board reviews second reading of Library Materials policy (606.5) with detailed reconsideration procedures
Summary
On second reading, the board reviewed draft Policy 606.5 (Library Materials) adopting MSBA/MASA model language, defining selection authority, reconsideration procedures, and referencing Minnesota statutes including §124D.991 and §134.51.
Dr. Cassandra Palmer, Policy Committee Chair, presented the second reading of Policy 606.5 (Library Materials), based on the MSBA/MASA model. The draft defines "library materials," delegates selection responsibility to professionally trained library media specialists, and outlines criteria for selection and removal.
The policy includes a multi-step reconsideration process for challenged materials: an informal review by the library media specialist and principal, and a formal Review Committee (odd-numbered membership suggested) to examine the material against selection criteria. The draft specifies required reporting of challenge outcomes to the Minnesota Department of Education and cites Minnesota Statutes (including §124D.991 and §134.51) and case law relevant to library access and First Amendment considerations.
The packet notes comment threads about whether the superintendent should be an appeal intermediary and whether an appeal to the board should be automatic. The policy language in the packet provides detailed procedural steps for parents, staff, or students who request reconsideration, and reserves the board’s final authority. "Parents and guardians have the right and the responsibility to determine their children’s access to library materials," the draft states, and it emphasizes staff expertise in collection decisions.
