library

Schools and libraries are seeing unprecedented attempts to pull books, deemed controversial by some, off the shelves. A new study finds those books are often about and by diverse people.

The Garfield County Public Library District faced backlash this year, as some people tried to restrict access to books in the adult section, citing safety concerns about children. But library staff remain committed to serving the community, especially through their children’s programming.

Megan Degenfelder was in Washington and Cheyenne, addressing the nationwide controversy regarding school libraries.

Terri Lesley is suing the Campbell County Library System and members of the Bennet family

Brandy Elder, the county’s human resources director, was unanimously approved on Aug. 8 until a permanent director is hired. Longtime director Terri Lesley was fired over her refusal to remove or relocate books on sex education and LGBTQ issues for youth.

The board voted 3-2 to revise the job requirements for the library director position and further distance itself from the American Library Association.

The 4-1 vote was held at a special meeting on July 28. Despite no official reason being given, board chair Charles Butler and member Sage Bear had asked for Lesley’s resignation a day earlier due to her refusal to remove or relocate various titles.

Casper Pride is collecting donations for a new LGBTQ library. The organization is looking for a physical location for the upcoming free service. They hope the library will help better support Casper's LGBTQ community.

The county commission appoints the board, whose serve three year terms. This is the first time since earlier this year that there has been a full board after resignations, term limits, and decisions against serving additional terms left several vacancies. The library continues to draw criticism from some in the community about books on sex education and LGBTQ issues aimed at children and teens.