Requests for Reconsideration at the Public Library Part Three: Scantily Clad Superheroes

It’s hard to see how frequently parents have a problem with certain books because of their relationship to the female body. I feel disheartened when I see these types of concerns on such a regular basis – not just in the form of requests for removal, but in daily, casual conversations. It’s a challenge but luckily I also notice that these important discussions about double standards, body image and dangers of body shaming are happening more frequently.

The Life and Opinions of Amy Finawitz by Laura Toffler-Corrie

Requests for Reconsideration at the Public Library Part Two: Growing Bodies

It’s the right of any parent to determine the best time to talk about sensitive issues with their children but we need titles that talk about bodies from as young as pre-k picture books. It is up to the parent to determine what titles are appropriate for their children and this specific title is age-appropriate in the children’s section.

Dinosaurs for Kids by Ken Ham

Addressing Requests for Reconsideration at the Public Library Part One: Biblical Dinosaurs

When I took my first job as a collection librarian, I assumed that most of the challenged books at public libraries fell into the familiar categories we see in the “frequently banned and challenged” lists that are featured during Banned Books Week: Harry Potter; Go Ask Alice; Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. I was wrong.