Some city officials say a children's book with graphic illustrations of nude bodies and chapters on sexuality has no place on the shelves of the Provo Library.
The award-winning book on human sexuality, however, meets guidelines of the library's selection policy. Therefore, some members of the Provo Library Board want the policy changed so books containing sexually explicit material are never again selected.The book, "It's Perfectly Normal" by Robie H. Harris, with illustrations by Michael Emberley, is found on library shelves throughout Utah. It was in the children's section of the Provo library for 15 months. It can also be found at the Orem and Springville libraries.
"No one has expressed concern to me about the book," said Dick Beeson, Orem Library director.
In addition to small sections on homosexuality and masturbation, the book contains chapters on puberty, pregnancy, family planning, abstinence, sexually transmitted diseases and making responsible choices. Proponents, including respected physicians and national columnist Ann Landers, say the book explains human sexuality in an honest way that growing children can understand without offending the moral values or sensibilities of parents.
But the book did offend the sensibilities of at least one Provo parent, who complained about its contents a few months ago to children's librarian Carla Morris. When Morris explained that the book fits the library's selection policy, the woman took her complaint to the mayor.
Mayor George Stewart made photocopies of some graphic illustrations in the book and gave them to Provo Library Board members. Many found the illustrations offensive and were surprised that the selection policy permitted such a book to be placed in the children's section. Board member John Cham-ber-lain threatened to resign if the book was not removed and the policy changed.
Library policy says materials should not be restricted because of "social, sexual or political viewpoints." It says the library should not promote particular beliefs, and materials that present an "honest phase of life" should not be ex-cluded because of frankness.
"The personal tastes, values and mores of either library staff or board members are not proper guidelines for what citizens of the community should read or be exposed to," the policy says.
The policy also states that material should only be sequestered to protect it from theft or vandalism. Even though librarians say "It's Perfectly Normal" fits the selection criteria, it has been pulled from the shelf.
A Library Board subcommittee is recommending that the selection policy contain language dealing specifically with obscene material. One proposal is that the policy include the same obscenity standards established by the courts and legislation. Another proposal is to require Library Board approval before any book on sexuality can be placed in the children's section. Board member Cindy Clark is concerned that such a guideline would keep all books on sexuality away from children.
"There is a need for answers for children involving human sexuality," she said.
Librarians say the Library Board's efforts are equal to censorship. Several showed up at Thursday's meeting and said parents should choose what their children read and not depend on library policy to do it for them. Library Director Julie Farnsworth said ethics of her profession require her to fight any efforts at censorship.
"We are not the judges. We are here to provide information," Farnsworth said.
But several board members, including Chamberlain, said their views on censorship don't differ from librarians. However, they feel the library selection policy should address the legal thresholds on obscenity and be consistent with lawmakers' intent on obscenity issues.
"I think it would be very helpful to see what other parts of the state are thinking on this issue," Board member Pamela McCoy said.
Vice chairman A. LeGrand Richards said both the board and library staff are struggling with their roles on the issue. He warned board members that any policy changes would have long-term implications and need to be carefully considered.