The last few weeks have been a wonderful example of our Library’s mission to welcome all perspectives to be included and represented. Providing a platform that makes room for everyone’s voice to be heard and considered regarding what inclusion through content in Storytimes means to them. After careful consideration and review of those advocating for clarity in content, with the majority embracing 24 hour notice, Library Leadership and the Board have worked together to adjust procedures. For the past two weeks, we have been implementing new processes of displaying Storytime materials a day in advance. The following formal update to Library procedures has been approved by the Library Board of Trustees as follows:
Storytime Content Inclusive Statement & Procedure
The Floyd County Library recognizes that we serve a community of over 78,000+ individuals representing diverse backgrounds. In creating our Storytime’s we strive to be inclusive to all of our community members. The Library has adjusted our process to empower parents/guardians to opt out of material that they feel are not suitable for their child. To allow for this parent empowerment, the titles for Storytime’s will be available 24 hours beforehand. Caregivers may call the Library to request the names of the books and the author. As always, attendees may quietly come and go at any time during programs, we just ask that everyone is respectful of all participants.
The Library Leadership and staff appreciate and take seriously the concerns of our Library users and work to find a balance in serving all individuals and do not discriminate in our services.
In addition, the Library has developed an avenue for more direct advocacy. For community feedback, please contact us at fcladvocacy@nafclibrary.org or 812-949-4412.
– Library Director Melissa Merida
