CLN: Don’t get spooked

I’m no fan of Halloween but since the ads and planning began the day after July 4, it’s a timely topic. Admittedly, the innocent toddler costumes of strawberries and bumblebees are adorable, but there’s little else redeemable about Halloween. With the epidemic of childhood obesity and diabetes, no one needs the onslaught of candy and I’m especially sympathetic for teachers having to handle those wired kids in the weeks afterward. Halloween is an excuse for adults to be foolish, wear provocative costumes and most egregiously, to frighten children. But this theme is applicable because there’s a concerted local effort to cast a spell to deceive and spook the public that CLN was the wicked witch seeking to destroy CIN.  

I had been an advocate of avoiding the split due to the advantages of access to a wider collection. But, since CIN took their drastic step, I’ve reflected on the recalcitrance of many Idaho libraries blatantly defying Idaho’s statute 18-1517b which protects minors. Even Coeur d’Alene library has demonstrated consistent disdain for this law — including when specific books have been challenged. So, despite their library’s beautiful edifice, its seeming conviction to despoil children colors it bleak and off-limits to many in the community. So, CLN is better for not having the affiliation.  

At CLN’s website, I’m enlightened and heartened with facts, not spin, regarding its new chapter. Look for CLN’s informative and exciting “Bright Future” section on their home page: communitylibrary.net 

Yes, the world is a haunting place, but what CLN’s board and new director have accomplished in three years have been a fountain of hope sparking light in the darkness. 

MARIANNA COCHRAN

Rathdrum