South Carolina: “As Book Challenges Continue Across SC, Charleston County Public Library Stands Firm on Process”

From The Post and Courier:

Three nonfiction books were recently challenged in Charleston County public libraries for inappropriate content relating to sex, with those opposed asking that they be moved to a special section where no one under 18 can read them — bringing home an extension of national and statewide discussions surrounding  some people believe are inappropriate for children.

“Let’s Talk About It: The Teen’s Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human,” by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan; “It’s Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health” by Robie H. Harris; and “This Book is Gay,” by Juno Dawson, have all been requested for reconsideration in the past week, according to Angela Craig, executive director of Charleston County Public Library. She said the review committee made up of library staff is reading the books.

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In Charleston, Craig said residents who take issue with a book can fill out a reconsideration request form at a local library branch to express concerns. The resident who completes the form can recommend where they think the book should go — stay where it is, be moved to the adult section or be removed completely. Once a completed form is filed, an internal committee reads the book and makes a recommendation to Craig, who has final say about what the library should do with the book.

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Craig said the library will make no changes to how it runs after the opinions most recently expressed by councilmembers, either.

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