Arlington library board gives guidelines on LGBTQ book displays

Arlington’s library advisory board voted Thursday night to recommend guidelines that would allow displays of LGBTQ materials in teen and adult areas but not in the children’s section. The vote was 9-1, and it came after several hours of public comment and debate from those who felt the library needed to represent everyone and those who did not want their children exposed to the displays. Linda Barrish said she was shocked that this type of discussion was taking place in 2022. “You are bringing your child, they don’t have to check out books. I am opposed to censorship of any kind,” she said.

But Donald Warner said the religious community needs to be represented. “Libraries should not be in the position of promoting a lifestyle,” he said. Warner added that the news media has plenty of information for people looking for information on that subject, meaning the LGBTQ community. When it came time for the board to vote, members debated on a compromise for displaying LGBTQ books and materials throughout the year and during Pride Month in June. Board chairman Catherine Serna-Horn said it is important to follow guidelines from the American Library Association and that librarians do not make personal judgments when choosing materials because they must serve a diverse community. Jabranika Stroba, a board member who voted against the proposed guidelines, said that there is an attitude of elitism and that parents should have a say. “I think that both sides feel like they are marginalized,” she said.