Require Clear Labeling of LGBTQ+ Books in Provo Library

Recent signers:
Georgia Wallace and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I am a frequent visitor to the Provo library with my children. Recently, I've observed an increase in the library's LGBTQ+ content for children. On our last visit, without realizing it, we checked out two books with lesbian content. I propose having a clear labeling system for LGBTQ+ books, and a specified section in which they are put in the children's area of the library—similar to holiday-themed, princess, ABC, and other grouped books at the library. This will allow parents to make informed decisions that align with their family values. This isn't a call to ban or remove these books, but rather a request for transparency for parents like myself who wish to easily know what books and media their children are checking out.

Such transparency would not only respect parental choice but also ensure that each family is able to decide when and how they discuss LGBTQ+ information with their children. Implementing such changes is the best way to honor parents' ability to choose, while respecting freedom and diversity. By establishing a policy that requires LGBTQ+ library materials to be labeled and put in a specified section, the library can foster an inclusive environment where all patrons feel that their freedom of choice is respected.

Sign this petition to support labeling and putting LGBTQ+ library materials in a specified section. Your signature can make a difference in promoting informed, respectful, and inclusive library practices.

This petition had 102 supporters
Recent signers:
Georgia Wallace and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

I am a frequent visitor to the Provo library with my children. Recently, I've observed an increase in the library's LGBTQ+ content for children. On our last visit, without realizing it, we checked out two books with lesbian content. I propose having a clear labeling system for LGBTQ+ books, and a specified section in which they are put in the children's area of the library—similar to holiday-themed, princess, ABC, and other grouped books at the library. This will allow parents to make informed decisions that align with their family values. This isn't a call to ban or remove these books, but rather a request for transparency for parents like myself who wish to easily know what books and media their children are checking out.

Such transparency would not only respect parental choice but also ensure that each family is able to decide when and how they discuss LGBTQ+ information with their children. Implementing such changes is the best way to honor parents' ability to choose, while respecting freedom and diversity. By establishing a policy that requires LGBTQ+ library materials to be labeled and put in a specified section, the library can foster an inclusive environment where all patrons feel that their freedom of choice is respected.

Sign this petition to support labeling and putting LGBTQ+ library materials in a specified section. Your signature can make a difference in promoting informed, respectful, and inclusive library practices.

The Decision Makers

Provo City Council
4 Members
1 Responded
Rachel Whipple
Provo City Council - District 5
I have now seen and reviewed the petition. It might be useful for the organizers and the petition signers to know about the Provo City Library's ABC Guide, which seems like it would address the concerns raised in the petition. My understanding is that the Library had worked to prepare this over a few months, and was about to roll it out when the Petition was created. It is now available, and I encourage everyone concerned about selecting the books they want for their family to check it out. https://provolibrary.gov/abcguide Thank you, Rachel
Gary Garrett
Provo City Council - At Large, Seat 2
Katrice Mackay
Provo City Council - At Large, Seat 1
Michelle Kaufusi
Former Provo City Mayor
Carla Gordon
Carla Gordon
Director of Library Services Provo Library
Joella Bagshaw
Joella Bagshaw
Children's Services Manager Provo Library

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates