Fairhope Library Faces Cuts Over Book Controversy

The Fairhope Public Library in Alabama, a lovely city by Mobile Bay, is in trouble over some books in its teen section. The Alabama Public Library Service Board voted recently to stop state funding for the library because some parents, who are conservative, complained about certain books. These books include “Sold,” a serious story about a girl in India who is forced into slavery.

John Wahl, the board chairman, who is also part of the Alabama Republican Party, said they believe the library is not following state rules to keep kids safe from unsuitable materials. He said they aren’t trying to completely ban the books but want them moved out of the teen section.

“There are strict rules now for libraries to get state funding,” Wahl said. He mentioned that parents read parts of the books at the meeting to explain why they think they shouldn’t be in the teen section. Some groups, like Clean Up Alabama, praised the board for trying to protect children.

Randal Wright, a library board member, was shocked by the decision. “We are heartbroken and surprised. We didn’t expect this at all,” he said. A few years ago, the library looked at complaints about 35 books and decided they were fine for teens, but now those decisions are being challenged again.

The community generally supports the library, but it seems only a small number of people are making the complaints. Read Freely Alabama, a group that believes in keeping libraries open to all ideas, is raising money to help replace $42,000 in lost state funding and has already gathered $8,000.

The board also made a big change by letting go of Nancy Pack, the library service leader since 2014. Pack had planned to resign this month, but the board felt there was tension between her and some members. She has worked as a librarian for over 30 years and feels the current pressure is hard on librarians. “Libraries shouldn’t be political,” Pack said. “It’s sad to see so many librarians thinking about leaving because of all this.”