Kansas City Public Library Statement On New Missouri Rules

A resource for this town's speaks out after a proposed crackdown . . .

Here's the word . . . And a highlight . . .

"The Kansas City Public Library has long supported the best interests of children – of all in our community. And we value parental oversight. Parents and guardians should be interested and involved in everything their children read, see, and hear. We invite and encourage that.

"Our current collection development policies assign the selection of youth material to experienced, professional collection development and children’s librarians. When selecting materials for children and teens, they seek titles that reflect the experiences and interests of those age groups.

"From our board of trustees to management to every librarian and member of our staff, the Kansas City Public Library adheres to the Library Bill of Rights, which maintains in part: A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views. That pertains to children as well as adults.

"We remain sensitive to any specter of censorship and restriction of equitable access to books and other vital Library materials. Yes, parents and guardians should be arbiters on what is suitable for their children. They shouldn’t impose those choices on others. Nor should the state of Missouri."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Library Studying Proposed New State Rule - You Should, Too

The office of Missouri's secretary of state wants public libraries to act in the very best interests of our children. We've long done that at the Kansas City Public Library and have no doubt that is the priority and practice of libraries across the state.