Washoe County Library Board Rejects Book Challenge Appeals

During a meeting of the Washoe County Library Board on Wednesday, trustees voted to reject the appeals of five members of the public who had challenged eight books within the library system’s collection—opting instead to maintain Board Director Jeff Scott’s initial decision to deny their book challenges. 

The failure of these appeals before the board means that the challenged books may remain unrestricted and in their current locations within Washoe County’s libraries.

The meeting, which took place at the Spanish Springs Library, drew heavy attendance; and many members of the public stood to comment on both the challenged books and the library system’s controversial Drag-Queen Story Time program.

One attendee, Candace Powell, remarked on the books challenged, saying, “I reviewed the material in the agenda; and while I may not personally relate to the characters’ experiences in these challenged books, I’m thrilled that they’re available in our library for those who can relate to them and those who need these stories.” She continued, “Not every book is written for me or for any one of us; but there should always be a book in the library for each of us.”

Ms. L. Contos also spoke in support of the books. “I’m against censorship of the books. I believe it’s the parents’ jobs to take care of what their children need while they’re young. I think that the library has a beautiful children’s section,” said Contos.

On the other hand, Darla Lee, who had challenged the books Looking for Alaska and Zenobia July, argued in defense of her book challenges before the board.

“I just want to know if it’s not possible to find an engaging, well-written coming-of-age story that does not promote binge drinking and smoking, foul language, disrespect to authority, oral sex, and porn,”stated Lee. “All of that was in this book [Looking for Alaska]. I believe most parents do not want such behavior presented to their underage children as cool things to do.” She advocated that Looking for Alaska be moved to the adult section in Washoe County’s libraries.

Additionally, book challenger Sandee Tibbett, had previously noted, “I personally feel it is the responsibility of all community members, parents and library staff included—everybody, it’s our community—to assist in limiting the exposure to harmful content and supervise the well-being of our community’s children.”

Trustee Al Rogers ultimately moved to reject the appeals of those challenging the books collectively; and Trustee Tami Ruf, who was newly and unanimously appointed to the library board by Washoe County commissioners on March 20, seconded his motion. 

The motion passed in a 4-1 vote, with Chairwoman Gianna Jacks dissenting.

The next scheduled meeting of the Washoe County Library Board is on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the South Valleys Library.