[A local resident made the statement below at the SPLD board meeting on May 19, 2025.]
Two years ago, during the month of June, I noticed quite a lot of rainbow decorations in the library—balloons, bunting, and the like. I asked three staff members—two librarians and a clerk—whether the rainbow decorations were related to Pride Month. The two librarians said they were not; the clerk was unsure.
This past June, there was a prominent display at the entrance to the young adult section. It was decorated with rainbows and self-affirming slogans—some broadly motivational, others more clearly associated with LGBTQ themes.
Beneath the display was a bookcase filled with LGBTQ-themed literature for teens. To the best of my recollection, all but one of the books featured queer protagonists, with gender identity and/or sexual orientation being central to the plot. The one exception was a book about a girl who wondered if she might actually be a demon.
Last week, I met with a librarian to ask about the 2024 display and whether a similar one is planned for this June. I was told the display was not specifically about LGBTQ identities, but rather a general message of self-acceptance.
However, that explanation does not seem consistent with the display’s content: the rainbow-themed décor, LGBTQ-affirming slogans, the focus on LGBTQ-centered books, and the timing—June, which is widely recognized as Pride Month.
The librarian also stated that, as far as she knew, there were no plans to put up a Pride-themed display in June. This seems improbable, to say the least.
Given my conversations with library staff in 2023 and again last week, I believe it is fair to ask whether I was intentionally misled. If that is the case, the board may wish to consider whether library staff are intentionally misleading patrons, and whether such conduct aligns with the ethical standards expected of public institutions.
I haven’t yet addressed the larger question: Why is the library celebrating Pride Month at all? Doesn’t this conflict with the library’s stated commitment to viewpoint neutrality, as outlined in its Collection Development Policy? According to the policy, the director and staff “neither promote nor discourage particular viewpoints or opinions.”
When the library puts up a Pride display it is taking a definite stance on a sensitive, controversial, and divisive topic. It is indeed promoting a particular viewpoint.
Furthermore, the display appears to violate the library’s policy on public display areas, which states: “The library public display areas may be used for library-related, non-profit, or local community organization materials only.” I would appreciate clarification on how a Pride Month display qualifies under any of these categories.
For those of us who believe the public library should remain a neutral space—especially on sensitive cultural and moral issues—the ongoing practice of celebrating Pride Month is deeply concerning.
Many Salado residents, myself included, believe that parents and community members should have a voice in what is promoted to children in taxpayer-funded spaces. I urge the board to consider a more balanced, family-sensitive approach to displays in public areas—especially where young people are concerned.
I also urge the board to take formal action—during this meeting, if needed—to ensure that future displays comply with the letter and spirit of library policy. I would remind the board that June is only two weeks away.
Thank you.
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