Title: ImagineIF Libraries Board Faces Controversy over Decision to Skip Banned Books Week Celebration
Subtitle: Trustee disputes board-wide decision, sparks debate among residents
by Taylor Inman
In a recent ImagineIF Libraries trustee meeting, a decision to forgo the annual observation of Banned Books Week sparked heated debate among residents and disagreements among board members. Trustee Jane Wheeler disputed the portrayal of the decision as a board-wide consensus, arguing that she was not aware of the decision until it was reported in local media. Wheeler also questioned the appropriateness of making the decision outside of a regular meeting.
According to Board Chair David Ingram, the decision to cancel the celebration of Banned Books Week was a result of the board’s choice to distance the county library system from the American Library Association. Ingram also stated that the board believes the celebration has become too divisive. Trustee Doug Adams supported Ingram’s remarks, stating that the decision stemmed from the board’s previous choice to leave the national library organization. Adams added that last year’s observance of Banned Books Week was only continued due to concerns about potential community backlash.
Banned Books Week is traditionally observed from October 1-7 and aims to raise awareness of books that have been banned or removed from libraries and schools. The American Library Association, one of the primary organizers of the event, manages its aspects and publishes an annual list of the most challenged books in the United States.
During the meeting, Wheeler questioned who has the authority to decide whether a program is divisive and cautioned against acting without a board decision. Residents both supporting and opposing the board’s decision spoke during the public comment period. Some, like Laurie Halfast of Bigfork, expressed confusion about the rationale behind forgoing the celebration, urging those who do not support it to simply not participate. Others, such as Jeff Ellingson of Kalispell, praised the board for deeming Banned Books Week divisive, citing concerns about inappropriate content in books and the perceived politics of the American Library Association. On the other hand, some individuals criticized the board, accusing them of supporting censorship.
Despite the extensive discussion, no formal action was taken regarding Banned Books Week during the meeting.
In other news, trustees learned that the proposal to relocate the library system’s Kalispell branch to a city-owned building at Depot Park has been permanently shelved. City officials have decided to renovate the building and move the Parks and Recreation Department there, along with establishing a law enforcement presence. The facilities committee, dedicated to finding options for a new Kalispell branch, is now exploring other possibilities.
Meanwhile, the ImagineIF Foundation Director, Sara Busse, reported that contractors can now submit bids for the construction of the library’s new Bigfork building. The capital campaign for the project has raised $1.8 million so far, with a goal of $3.2 million. Construction is set to begin upon selection of a bid.
The ImagineIF Library Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet again on October 26th at the City Hall Council Chambers in Columbia Falls.
For more information, contact Reporter Taylor Inman at 406-758-4433 or tinman@dailyinterlake.com.