Problems with inappropriate books in school libraries apparently have spread to the public libraries.
There is, of course, plenty of adult material in those libraries but they have infiltrated the children’s section, one mother found.
Maleana Gay, wife of a city councilman, posted in Facebook:
“Took my 7-year-old to the Jacksonville Public Library to check out the children’s library. Wasn’t surprised by what was on display. Are you?
“Little Golden Books, in their own description: Little Golden Books are generally recommended for children ages 2 to 5. They are also suggested for slightly older children who are just beginning to read. Some Little Golden Books may be more suitable for specific age groups within that range, such as the \My Very First Little Golden Book’ series for even younger babies and toddlers.”
Little Golden Books have been a staple for more than 80 years. Millions of children have read The Little Engine That Could, Prayers for Children and Little Red Hen.
Gay told Eye on Jacksonville she attended a press conference for the governor last week and afterward took her daughter to the main library downtown. “We went to the kids section. On tops of shelves were books on display. ‘Pride’ themes were on some and I noticed a Little Golden Book.
She found a glossary in the back of that book on how to explain to a child a number of very adult terms and concepts.
“It was just too much for kids,” she said.
Then she found a book dedicated to George Floyd, a drug-addict and criminal who died in police custody. “The book says he was murdered by the police. Do we tell kids that, out of context?”
Following her visit and Facebook post, Gay learned some of the books have been removed. One library board member told her he was “appalled” and planned to discuss it at the next board meeting.
Like the School Board, the Library Board has a book review committee. It sounds like they need to do a better job of reviewing.
There is obviously an effort, by someone and for some reasons, to expose children to material most parents would consider unsuitable. Parents have noticed and are fighting back. Those enlisted in the effort to protect their children should be applauded.
