Challenges to our Book Collection

 I'm hearing from a number of other libraries in Wisconsin that they are experiencing a new wave of citizen challenges to select titles in their collections. Most of the challenges concern children's books with diverse characters or books that express views that some people find objectionable. 

The public library is a forum for ideas. All of us can find something in the collection with which we disagree. All of the nonfiction books we purchase are reviewed to make sure the author has adequate authority/ subject knowledge, so it isn't just anyone's opinion, it's someone with enough authority or understanding of the subject to have an opinion worth sharing.  (No one should purchase a textbook I write on orthopedic surgery.) We are careful about what we select in terms of merit, but we don't censor books based on our personal opinions.

For those of you who've recently joined the staff, I wanted to make sure you are aware of how we interact with someone who complains about an item in the collection. 

First off, never argue with the patron. You won't change their mind by debating the issue. Simply listen and acknowledge that they are heard. Then offer them the option to submit a formal Request for Reconsideration. Most people don't go through with it, but always offer that option. The form can be found at the end of the Collection Development Policy All our policies are listed on the library's website, so you always have access to them. There is a pdf version of the policy at the bottom of the web version.  Print out the entire policy and hand it to the patron. Invite them to fill out the Request for Reconsideration form and return it. The policy provides the procedure for you:

• The patrons will be given a copy of the Kenosha Public Library Collection Development Policy, which includes the Request for Reconsideration of Library Material form.

• If the patron wants to pursue the reconsideration, the completed reconsideration form must be submitted to the Division Head of Support Services. The Division Head of Support Services will notify the patron by letter within two (2) weeks confirming that their request has been received. The Division Head of Support Services will appoint a staff committee to review the item being questioned and make a recommendation to the Library Director within six (6) weeks of receiving the initial request.

• The Library Director will decide whether or not the item should be retained and the patron will be informed of the decision within three weeks of receiving the staff recommendation.

• The patron may appeal the Library Director’s decision to the Library Board within two (2) months of receiving the Library Director's reply.

If you have any questions, consult your supervisor, and always feel free to seek help from your coworkers whenever you just can't seem to resolve an issue with patrons. We are a very supportive team and have your back!

This week's Bright Spot nominations come from Karen:
"I'd like to nominate Gina for a Bright Spot Award.
Gina is very warm and friendly and makes sure she says hello to everyone who walks through the front doors. She always has a warm hello and a smile on her face. I walked through the door on my day off and was greeted the same. Thank you, Gina!
I'd like to nominate Alex, Dina, and Gina for a Bright Spot Award. Over the past few months I have been handling my aunt's affairs and all three of them have helped me fax, scan to email, etc. They have been very helpful to me during this overwhelming time. Thank you all so much!"