Yes, Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries are trying to ban books, but we'll get to that later. First, I'd like to clarify some things about this petition. In this update, the following will be covered:
- How does signing this petition help the cause?
- How can I further help prevent book bans in the Magic Valley?
- What platforms can I use to keep up with this cause?
- Addressing Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries
How does signing this petition help the cause?
By signing this petition, you can get updates on the issue and show your support for the cause. During their next meeting, this petition will be given to the Twin Falls Public Library director and board. If Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries attempts to challenge books at local public schools, then this petition will also be given to the school board.
How can I further help prevent book bans in the Magic Valley?
You can find the contact information for the Library director here. I'd recommend sending her an email voicing your concern that books will be withdrawn from our public library. Make sure to speak out about Magic Valley Parents 4 Safer libraries and share this petition!
You can also reach out to local publications. Today an opinion letter I wrote to the Magic Valley Times was published, which you can read here. You can also submit tips for news stories on most local news stations. We must make more people aware of the issue!
Also, make sure to stay updated with the cause! This issue constantly changes, so it's a good idea to keep updated!
What platforms can I use to keep up with this cause?
You can follow our Instagram updates or our new Facebook page. We are currently attempting to highlight what was said at the Magic Valley Parents 4 Safer Libraries meeting, as well as highlighting real Idahoans who are against book bans. If you want to submit a statement, email me at Scarletjrulien@gmail.com.
Addressing Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries
Above is a statement from Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries stating they have not and never will discuss book bannings. But this is a blatant lie; in fact, they talked about banning books in their first meeting. In the folder linked, there are four files; two show a document they handed out at their first meeting, which explicitly states their intent to "challenge" books. The other two are audio files of Karen, the head of the organization, verbally confirming these plans. I didn't intend to release these videos yet, because I wanted to caption them before their release for accessibility. Still, since Magic Valley Parents 4 Safe Libraries blatantly lied, I felt I needed to post them here.
Some people may be confused about the use of the phrase "challenging" books. So click here to read about it from the ALA. Essentially to challenge a book is to attempt to request restriction or removal of books, while banning is the removal of books. So yes, challenging books does get them banned. It is also obvious that they want these books removed from the library or make them entirely unavailable for children (Yes, this includes children's books and any book containing "Witchcraft").