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Many states and school districts are threatening to defund libraries and are challenging books at an increasing rate.  Removing books from library shelves reduces public access to information and is often part of an attempt to control what can be taught or discussed in public spaces, usually done under the guise of protecting children. Public libraries are often targeted for their inclusion of queer and transgender authors and books that address any subject matter that relates to gender, sexuality, and racism. Today Jen is joined In the Den by librarian Lynn Steinmeyer to discuss the impacts of book banning and what we can do about it. 

Special Guest: Lynn Steinmeyer

Lynn earned her MLIS degree from the University of Rhode Island and then worked almost 16 years in a small public library in CT. She then earned her MSW from Simmons College in Massachusetts and has been working with youth and families for more than a year. She is the mother of 2 children (22 and 24) who aren’t children anymore. They are both in long term relationships so Lynn claims two lovely daughters-in-law as well.

A Note from Lynn: 

I would really encourage listeners to go to their local library and ask to see the Collection Development Policies. If we are focusing on serving our community and 30% of the community identify as LGBTQ - then in theory, 30% of the collection in that demographic should reflect our community! Hopefully people can look at the links below and see what they can do to support their local libraries and Friends of the Library groups. Also, maybe they will look at these lists and want to start their own fREADom to Read Group. If they want advice and support in that endeavor they can reach out to me. I would be glad to support them in what way I can, even if it will only be a supportive ear. 

Links from the Show: 

• Top Ten Books Banned & Challenged for 2023 (7 out of 10 are LBGTQ+): https://www.ala.org/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10 
• Freedom to Read Statement: https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/freedomreadstatement
• The American Library Association Bill of Rights: https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill
• Censorship numbers:  https://www.ala.org/bbooks/censorship-numbers
• 30 Years of Challenged Books: https://www.tiki-toki.com/timeline/entry/51787/Banned-Books-Week-Celebrating-30-Years-of-Liberating-Literature/#vars!date=1983-01-18_09:35:34!

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