We demand York County Council and the York County Library Board of Trustees stop all efforts to remove, relocate, require a special label, or in any way impede access to any book in our York County SC Libraries due to their personal beliefs and/or opinions.

Our librarians are highly trained experts who work to collect and make available a wide variety of information resources representing the range of human thought and experience. The parent/guardian(s) assume the responsibility over which book their child borrows from the library. A small group of parents must not dictate what books other people's children are easily able to access and read. Our libraries have procedures and policies in place for an individual to lodge a “Request for Reconsideration of Library Materials” should they have any concerns over content.

We do not need Councilman Audette and/or the York County Library Board of Trustees to unilaterally decide what should be in our libraries and where certain books should be located. Books are an essential tool for education, exploration, and personal growth. They provide valuable knowledge and insight, promote critical thinking, and expand our understanding of the world around us. Hiding diverse and inclusive books would not only limit our access to information, but it would also send a dangerous message that certain ideas and identities are not welcome in our community.

We must take immediate action to halt this government censorship of our library system. We cannot allow this effort to take hold. Please sign the petition and share with others in our community who support our York County Public Libraries.