The four challengers running for the Homer Township Public Library Board say it is a misconception that they want to ban books, but they say the board should set age-appropriate safeguards so children aren’t checking out questionable material.
“I want to make this as clear and as blunt as possible: I do not believe in banning any books nor do I believe there will be anything like book burnings,” said Stephen J. Balich III, an employee of the Homer Township assessor’s office. “I think the parents should have ultimate control over what their children read. I believe our community has a set of values and standards that is important to maintain.
Lund, a trustee since 2019, said parents should be going with their children to the library and talking with them about what they should be allowed to read. But she said the library should provide equitable access to information for all regardless of race, religion, gender or socioeconomic status. “But it’s important to recognize that that book may be exactly what another patron is looking for and they deserve the freedom to make that choice for themselves,” she said. “If we start restricting access to certain materials based on the ideals of some at our public library, it’s a slippery slope.”
The four challengers said they were unaware of any instances where children were checking out inappropriate materials at the Homer Township Library but said it has happened at nearby libraries.Library Director Sheree Kozel-La Ha said there a request for reconsideration policy in place, and no one has requested the Homer Township Library remove a book from its collection. She said there is also not a way to add a rating or flag a book to say it is explicit.
The incumbents applaud library staff for seeking grants to offset costs and said their history of being fiscally responsible allowed the library to operate during the pandemic without laying off any staff. The incumbents said they enjoy working together and are respectful of each other’s opinions. Drabik said he and his slate are not interested in cutting any programs the library offers. He said the election is a chance to mix up the board and get fresh ideas.Kozel-La Ha said the 4,200-square-foot addition project, which is expected to be completed later this year, was entirely self-funded. The $4 million addition was paid for using 10 years worth of savings and the library has a long-range plan that was developed with input from the public.
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