EDITORIAL: Book it: Another reason to vote

Book banning has been around as long as books have been published.

But for those of you old enough to remember, the banners tended to sink their teeth into books that had been assigned reading in public schools. Many schools adapted by allowing parents to select replacement reading, but the slippery slope had been established.

Now you hear not so much about targeted novels riling up otherwise mundane school board meetings; the target is much broader than that.

Rather than insist that “inappropriate” assigned reading not be shoved down their children's throats in school, some citizens want the materials removed from public library shelves.

In other words, it’s no longer a parent protecting her or his child from materials that the adult considers inappropriate. It’s now about ensuring others do not have access to those reading materials, either.

On May 16, voters will be selecting board members for the Community Library Network. Two of the five seats are open; those currently held by Judy Meyer and Regina McCrea. The Community Library Network includes libraries in Hayden, Post Falls, Rathdrum, Athol, Spirit Lake, Harrison and Pinehurst.

Concerns over what’s on the shelves tend to grab headlines and raise people’s temperatures. In her candidacy announcement, longtime network trustee Judy Meyer was on the money with this statement:

“There are some in our community who would like to take over the Kootenai County institutions and turn them into organizations that reflect their political, social or religious views. We are seeing this at NIC, where the college’s accreditation is currently in jeopardy. I am running for re-election so our libraries will continue to serve everyone. That means no political, social or religious agendas imposed on our patrons.”

Meyer would also be the first to tell you that the library network is far more than a place where books share shelf space. The network is rich in programs for people of all ages and interests. It offers free computer use, access to periodicals, movies, music and much more.

Membership is free, and even late returns are no longer fined. Among the wealth of resources available to the public throughout North Idaho, taxpayers probably get the best bang for their buck through their libraries.

Whether it’s book-ban battles that inspire you or simply appreciation for all your local library has to offer, please, remember that your May 16 ballot may include positions for two critically important Community Library Network seats.

For more information on what your network library has to offer: https://communitylibrary.net/