Accountability

Public libraries can be the source of debate. What material is appropriate to have in a public library? Should anything ever written be placed in a public library? If there is a limit on what should be in a public library, who should decide on the material? Our community libraries usually have a board which is appointed by the local government. If graphic images are on display in a library, whose responsibility is it to keep young children exposed from these images? An easy answer to this is the parents. I chose to protect my children as much as possible, but I'm outnumbered. My children don't gravitate toward the same things. They have different likes and dislikes. When we go into a library (or book store) we all head in different directions. It is a challenge to protect my children from things that can harm them. I have a great admiration for parents that have many children. As hard as it is with two (which happen to be twins in my case but none the less still different), I can't imagine how difficult it would be with more.
There is a debate in Topeka over what should be in the public library. It probably wouldn't be a big deal except the local news station I usually listen to makes it a big deal. By listening to them, you would think that anything should be allowed in the public library. I guess anything except young children. If anything is allowed in a library, why would you need a board?
The one sided debate usually ends with-" if you don't like it, don't look at it". This is easier said than done especially when it comes to curious young minds.
As fathers we are the ultimate person responsible for what our children see. We can't be with them twenty four hours a day. My solution for the library or book store situation is to take one daughter with me, or go with my wife and both daughters, and if something they see disturbs them be ready to listen to their questions and try to come up with a reasonable answer. Better yet, I'll continue to spend my money in book stores that I don't have to worry about and still gripe about my money going to libraries I have no control over.