Sometimes being 70 years of age has its advantages….not often, but sometimes.  I have witnessed many public fights during my lifetime over what books should and should not be in a public library.

Public libraries are supported by tax dollars.  The tradition of book lending libraries goes back to the days of Benjamin Franklin.  It is an American tradition.

However, public libraries can create controversy when certain books become controversial and certain members of the community argue one or more book should be removed or moved from a teen to an adult section of the book collection.

I was aware that a special meeting of the Hamilton East Library Board was happening last Friday afternoon but was unable to attend personally.  Fortunately, Indianapolis Star reporter M.J. Slaby was able to report on that meeting.

You can access that story using this link.    (NOTE:  You must must be an IndyStar subscriber to access this story.  Online subscriptions are not at all expensive.  Once again, another example of why you should subscribe to your local media sources!)

The Hamilton East Library system has branches in Noblesville and Fishers.

Based on M.J. Slaby’s reporting, the library board heard plenty of public comment, then directed the library staff to look at moving one particular book on sexuality from the teen section to another part of the library, and possibly split the teen section of the library.

The board will be receiving a staff report at its next meeting February 24.

As a volunteer news blogger, I try to attend as many meetings as possible, but cannot get to them all.  Thanks to the Star and M.J. Slaby for giving our local community a rundown on that library board meeting.