NORRIS: Sheriff protecting minors’ safety

Sheriff Bob Norris was recently cited in several news articles bringing attention to some inappropriate material located in the minor’s areas of the Community Library Network. It is my understanding that his duty as the sheriff is to protect and serve the entire community. This would logically include the safety of minors.

During his library visit, he dredged up two examples of books which have no place in the hands of children. As a Community Library Network trustee, I applaud him for shining a light on these examples of the sewage which has leaked into the taxpayer-funded library system over the past few years. I consider such materials to be an endangerment to minors and to be in opposition to the values of our community.

The CLN board is currently in the process of amending the Material Selection Policy to prevent the future acquisition of inappropriate materials for our minor’s collection. In light of the May election outcome, I am confident the public will support these efforts.

I view the sheriff’s investigation as a community service, having acted in his official law enforcement capacity. I encourage the general public to remain engaged and share their input with the board via Public Comment at CLN meetings, and to use the current Reconsideration of Material process to challenge whatever books they consider inappropriate for our community’s minors.

Sheriff Norris’ vigilance is noteworthy, and I thank him for his public service.

TOM HANLEY

Community Library Network Trustee