[LM_NET] Feel like debating choices?

[Diane Chen <DianeRChen@AOL.COM>]

As the parent of four teenage boys, I object to a very  conservative group
censoring choices for my children. (This is not directed at  anyone specifically
in LM_NET) Yes, I understand that parents can take their  children to the
public library, where they can check out these controversial  magazines which
portray women in unflattering lights, saving the school budgets  for those
extremely meaningful curriculum support materials. Yet, where has our  proactive
stance on behalf of children's choice gone? Who is standing up for the  right to
read? Not just read what some in society see as socially acceptable,  but what
interests the reader.
   If you have ever read a romance novel, you have seen women  portrayed in
an unflattering light. Yet you find those materials in libraries. I  do provide
magazines for my sons to meet their interests in games. They read to  meet
their needs, to learn more, and to be able to do what they like better. I  wish
that all children had access to materials. Some can't afford them.
   Libraries are for the publics we serve. Our job is to find a  balance
between curriculum and recreation. How do you draw the line? How do you  rank
student interest when you are purchasing? When do you allow people outside  the
core group to impact your purchasing decisions? For example, allow a few  High
School parents to prevent magazine purchases that are enjoyed by several
hundred students each week.
   Just food for thought.  I feel in the mood to think  tonight and I want to
be sure that there are libraries out there for all  children no matter what
their needs.

Diane Chen, Library Information Specialist
Hickman Elementary, Nashville, TN
email:  _DianeRChen@aol.com_ (mailto:DianeRChen@aol.com)

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