HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-05-1977 Library Board MinutesUNGER MEMORIAL LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
December 5, 1977
The regular meeting of the Unger Memorial Library Advisory Committee was called
to order at 7:05 P.M. in the Librarian's office by Mrs. Merwin Igo, President.
Present were Ruby Curry, Susan LaFont, Malcolm Tisdel, David Willson, Lloyd
Woods, Mrs. Jess Sammann, and Judy Smith, Librarian.
The minutes of the November 7, 1977, meeting were approved as presented. The
Librarian's Report for November was presented.
Mrs. Sammann distributed a "Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials"
form which she had completed on Alone of all her Sex, the myth and the cult of
the Virgin Mary, by Marina Warner. Mrs. Sammann claimed that the book contained
blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and that her faith had been shaken by reading
the book. The Committee stated that reviews of the book had been very favorable
and that the book had been selected within the guidelines of the Library's Ma-
terial Selection Policy. The Committee further stated that it was unlikely that
anyone who could understand the work would have his faith shaken by it. Mrs.
Sammann was thanked for her concern. The Committee voiced its appreciation for
the time and effort she had expended in preparing her written complaint.
Miss Smith distributed a drawing for a parking barrier in front of the library
on 9th street. The Committee asked Miss Smith to inform Mr. Pharr that any
type barrier necessary would be acceptable.
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The Committee then discussed recent -- �''- - - � . w I ch ha • not been handled
through the proscribed channels. Mr. Woods stated that the City Council did not
want to become involved in censorship; however, the Council suggested that the
Committee come up with a plan for selecting books that would suit the best
interests of the community. Miss Smith stated that the current selection
policy does just that. Mrs. Igo stated that the Committee does not have the
authority to select books: the Librarian has final authority about which books
and other materials will be ordered or accepted for placement on the shelves.
„Mr. Woods •• sted that the n. - '- 'I • •� •- �-' •ff the shelves.
Miss Smith stated that one -of the books had been circulated 26 times previously
with no complaint. There was some discussion of limiting the circulation of
the materials in question and not selecting such materials in the future. Miss
Smith noted that such materials are heavily circulated and in demand by patrons.
Mrs. Igo requested that each one rethink his position for consider. io, in Jan-
uary. Action on the matter was tabled onth ! the -January meet i r,'.
The meeting _djourned at 9 n.M.
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Judy Smith, Secretary
Unger Memorial Library Advisory Committee