Book Censorship

[Margaret Scites <mscites@access.k12.wv.us>]

Thanks to all of you who have expressed
sympathy and concern for our situation here in Jackson
County, West Virginia. Although the matter is still far
from being resolved, some progress has been made.  After
the first Board directive to remove the books the superin-
tendent had each of the four schools without policies
adopt one at the school level. The superintendent also
assigned the four librarians who are involved  and
two administrators to draft a county level policy which
was presented to the Board last Thursday night.  This
policy when adopted at the county level would take the
place of our individual policies, but it would begin at
school level and only be appealed to the county level
if the person making the challenge is not satisfied with
the decision made at the school level.

  The Board agreed to revue this policy and take into
consideration some suggestions make by our local professional
organization. However, they voted three-two to keep
the books off the shelf until they have been revued.
This followed a motion to return the books until a
policy was in place and then follow the policy if any
specific title were challenged.  This was voted down
by the same three-two split.  There is little hope of
changing the mind of these Board members. Our only hope
in that situation is to elect new members when their
terms are up.

        The Board meeting Thursday was interesting.  There
were twenty different presentations.  Eighteen were expressing
disapproval for the actions of the Board.  The speakers
were students, teachers, lawyers, and parents.  Some
represented groups; some spoke as individuals.  Most were
excellent, well-prepared and well researched.  I was proud
to be represented by them.

        Our superintendent has directed us to review each
of the seventeen removed titles that we have in our collection
using our individual policies.  If they are favorable reviewed,
they may go back on the shelves.  This is not fair since only
The Color Purple had a specific challenge, but to his credit he
is trying to find a resolution and with our present Board it
seems to be the only way we can get the books back on the shelf.

        Whether some of the individuals who are in favor of the
Board's actions bring individual challenges remains to be seen.
We have received some excellent materials from ALA, and there
may still be a lawsuit.

        Thanks again to all of you.  My advice to you is to
not only have a policy at your school,  but make sure your
county or district has a definite policy that begins at the
school level.
Margaret
--
Margaret Scites, Librarian  mscites@access.k12.wv.us
Ravenswood High School
Ravenswood, West Virginia 26164
http://rhs.jack.k12.wv.us/RvHS/libpage.htm

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