Parents have the right to decide which books their own children read, but a small number of parents should not be allowed to make decisions about which books are available for the many families served by a particular school or town library. That’s what proponents of a new bill before the legislature believe, and why they’re supporting requiring every library to have clear policies on how its book collections are developed—and processes in place for how materials may be reviewed and reconsidered.
In the latest episode of CEA’s podcast, Senator Bob Duff and school library media specialist Jenny Lussier, strong supporters of the bill, spoke with CEA President Kate Dias and Vice President Joslyn DeLancey about why Senate Bill 1271 An Act Concerning School and Public Libraries is needed and is receiving strong endorsements from educators, parents, and legislators alike.
Senator Duff said he was inspired to support the legislation after seeing efforts across the country, including here in Connecticut, to ban books and intimidate librarians. Some librarians have been sued, harassed, and even forced to quit he said, which is why he wants to make sure librarians feel protected and families have access to a balanced collection of literature for their children.
“We want parents to be a part of the conversation,” DeLancey said. “There’s a space to have a conversation and talk about your concerns, but there’s no space to hurt people because of them.”
Listen to the entire episode below, or wherever you get your podcasts.
