Comments on: Will “adult” graphic novels take a hit in library’s new materials selection policy?

By: Amy Crump

Amy Crump — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 02:31:44 +0000

I am pleased to announce that the Marshall Public Library Board of Trustees voted to return both Blankets and Fun Home to the shelves on March 14, 2007.

By: Not From Around

Not From Around — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 17:56:26 +0000

I really hope this is sarcasm, although it doesn’t look like it. Public libraries still fill an enormously vital function in American communities. Yes, schools have libraries, but they must often work with public libraries to supplement their material, especially in smaller towns. Libraries also provide AV materials, public computers (vitally important to people who can’t afford to have one at home–our public computer patron business now equals our book patrons), community programs for children and adults, and meeting and study areas for individuals and groups who need them.

Public libraries are still a vitally important publically available source of information and information assistance. Closing them down in today’s information age would be an absolute disaster for society.

And BTW, Kat Kan’s absolutely right about the need for a written materials selection policy. We found that out the hard way a while back, although it was not a book challenge situation.

By: del gorky

del gorky — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 05:40:26 +0000

I frankly don’t care what public libraries do or don’t do. I’d be just as happy if we shut them all down and refunded some tax dollars.

Children have access to plenty of reading material in school libraries. I don’t see any need to support grown adults reading habits who are perfectly capable of buying whatever they care to read. Yes, some people can’t afford all the books they want. But I can’t afford all the things I want either.

Public Libraries are no longer places for research and study, but are more like shabby versions of booksellers doling out best sellers, free day care, and largely unnecessary internet connections. All most public libraries need is a coffee bar, some green paint, and soft jazz to complete their transition to tax dollar funded Barnes & Noble.

Usually if something is worth buying to read to begin with, it isn’t worth my time to read either. If you have more time than I do on your hands but not enough money to fill your cavernous craving for media, allow me to suggest getting a part time job at a bookstore. Less time, more cash, and a discount.

By: Kat Kan

Kat Kan — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 16:58:46 +0000

What I hope libraries take from this cautionary tale is the idea that a written materials selection policy is a MUST for every library, whether they choose to carry graphic novels or not. Major library systems have had such policies in place for many many years. I’ve worked in two such library systems, and I’ve had to refer to the policy in dealing with challenges several times in each system. Having a selection policy that allows the library lots of leeway in acquiring materials in new formats helps to support the library when challenges come up. I have a feeling that libraries in smaller communities have never felt the need for a written materials selection policy before, and that some of them blithely assume they’ll be fine with whatever they acquire.