"Restricting access to these materials through subjective relocation or removal constitutes a violation of the community's right to information and a direct infringement on the principles of free speech."
"Our libraries are funded by and for the citizens; therefore, the right to access information free from government interference is a protected hallmark of our democracy."
"As an arm of the county government, the board cannot legally limit the public's access to materials owned by the people based on the content of the ideas expressed with them."
"I would compromise my professional integrity and the constitutional first amendment right to free speech of all citizens of Rutherford county and myself."
Luanne James, a Tennessee library director, was fired for not relocating over 100 LGBTQ+-themed children's titles to the adult section. The Rutherford county library board voted for her dismissal after a contentious meeting. James defended her stance, arguing that relocating the books violated community rights to information and free speech. She emphasized that libraries should provide access to materials without government interference, aligning with the American Library Association's ethical standards. James refused to comply with the board's order, asserting it would infringe on constitutional rights.
Read at www.theguardian.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]