The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received September 26, 2024.
As a former public librarian, I support Renee LaMark Muir for election to the Connecticut General Assembly’s 36th House District. I find it appalling that many candidates for office these days are making book-banning part of their platforms. In our sometimes-contentious world, public libraries remain meeting places where everyone is welcome and different points of view are accepted. They offer programs for all ages and a lifetime of education for citizens.
A librarian’s education includes training in how to choose well-written books that present differing viewpoints on subjects of interest to our communities and schools. We are careful when choosing material for children and adults that may offer challenging, yet legitimate ways of looking at our world and how it works. Our job is to provide a well-rounded collection, not one that offers only one point of view.
As citizens in a democracy, we have the right and duty to educate ourselves and our children to become responsible citizens. When parents exercise these rights and monitor their children’s reading and viewing, guiding them in their choices, there is no need to censor or interfere with the choices of others.
Renee LaMark Muir, candidate for State Representative in District 36, states that libraries are the “cornerstones of a community,” which she has used throughout her life.
“I strongly oppose book banning that removes books from libraries and public schools. Libraries, whether public or affiliated with a school, are places where people can exercise their First Amendment rights by exploring a wide range of viewpoints, types of books especially about marginalized groups or controversial topics, and experience,” she comments.
I will be supporting Muir’s candidacy in November.
