HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-05-08 Board of Library Trustees MinutesEIVED
Town of Reading Tp#N CLERK
' Meeting Minutes R E. 4!',1N MA.
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Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Board of Library Trustees
Date: 2023-05-08 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Public Library Location: Community Room
Address: 64 Middlesex Avenue Session: Open Session
Purpose: General Meeting Version: Final
Attendees: Members - Present:
Monique Pillow-Gnanaratnam, Chair; Monette Verner, Vice -Chair;
Andrew Grimes, Secretary; Cheyne Dubois; Patrick Egan; Cappy Popp
Members - Not Present:
others Present:
Amy Lannon, Director; Meaghan Clemente, Administrative Assistant;
See attached sign -in sheets
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Andrew Grimes, Secretary
Topics of Discussion:
Call to Order at 7:04 p.m.
I. Public Comment
Ms. Pillow-Gnanaratnem reviewed the procedures for public comment. 45 minutes will
be offered, with a two -minute limit per speaker. In-person and Zoom participants may
speak and should kindly introduce themselves with their name and address. Ms. Pillow-
Gnanaratnam will recognize each speaker and alternate between in-person and Zoom
participants. Priority will be given to those who have not spoken
Mike Monahan introduced himself as the individual who filed the Request for
Reconsideration of Materials (RFR) for Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe due to alleged
images of child pornography that he believes are not congruent with the community
standards of Reading and detailed specific areas of concern. Mr. Monahan feels that
some publications are effectively banned by not being included in the Library collection.
Other publications offer value to the LGBTQ+ community. Mr. Monahan believes that the
Library should hold itself to a higher community standard than the world wide web.
Eileen Litterio expressed concerns over the potential negative impact of sexually explicit
images in Gender Queer on students' social, emotional, and intellectual health and
safety. Ms. Litterio suggested removing the book from the teen section due to its age -
inappropriate content.
Liz Whitelam introduced herself as a resident and owner of Whitelam Books. Ms.
Whitleam complimented the professionalism and expertise of librarians in creating a
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welcoming environment for all and believes that books can provide windows into
different life perspectives and provide a safe place to explore experiences, identity, and
ideas.
Alicia Modestino described the award-winning graphic novel memoir Gender Queer and
the author's day-to-day journey with gender identity struggles in a heteronormative
world. Ms. Modestino referenced a single controversial panel in the book and provided
examples of other books found in the Teen Health section that explore gender and
sexuality.
Erin Calvo-Bacci expressed her support for literature and the right to read books,
especially those that are banned, to facilitate an open and thoughtful discussion. Ms.
Calvo-Bacci suggested placing a disclaimer on Gender Queer due to the uncomfortable
nature of the subject matter.
Nancy Docktor, a resident who is also a mental health clinician, urged the Board not to
ban Gender Queer. She also urged the Library to order more books and have a book
club for adults in Reading to read and discuss the book.
John Sullivan shared his opinion that Gender Queer can provide valuable perspective
and insight for youth who may be struggling with gender issues themselves or
supporting peers who are. Mr. Sullivan expressed his enjoyment of the hoopla digital
service he used to read the book.
Jay Wallace expressed his support for Gender Queer and discussed the ironic effect of
book bans building interest in books despite depictions of violence, sex, or other
offensive material. Mr. Wallace noted that six of the ten most banned books of 2022
featured LGBTQIA content, although they can provide valuable learning experiences
and opportunities to develop empathy.
Brian Curry spoke about the importance of protecting children from pornography and
described examples of sexual content present in other Teen books.
Sherilla Lestrade questioned the right of parents to decide what library materials other
families want to educate and support their children with. Ms. Lestrade expressed her
belief that Gender Queer can facilitate conversations and understanding as children
navigate the realities of their lives.
Chris Moriarty pointed out that Gender Queer has not been found in violation of any
federal or local child pornography statutes and is widely available on Amazon.com, as
well as other bookstores and libraries. This suggests that it does not meet the definition
of child pornography.
Carolyn Johnson shared her belief that Gender Queer would have provided support and
answers to questions that her transgender daughter had if it had been available while
she was in Middle School, especially around age 11 or 12 during the onset of puberty.
Kevin Lucey noted that materials are available to children in any part of the Library,
including R-rated movies and mature -rated videogames that are not available to them at
commercial retailers. Mr. Lucey suggested establishing two sets of library cards with and
without parental restrictions. Mr. Lucey read aloud explicit passages from Gender queer.
Tim Matthew believes the discussion should be centered on the explicit content of the
book rather than transgender rights, which are supported through other public and
private resources and initiatives. Mr. Matthew referenced the Library's Internet Access
Policy, which prohibits access to material harmful to minors, as well as limited adult
Page 1 2
access to the Teen section when not accompanying a minor or actively searching the
collection.
Johnny Russo acknowledged that there are many different types of people in the world,
but questioned the educational value and appropriateness of Gender Queer.
Helena Johnson expressed her position against removing or restricting access to
Gender Queer, which she views as an attack on freedom of speech, First Amendment
rights, and the rights of the LBGTQI community.
Vanessa Alvarado recognized the Library staff and the Board for creating a warm,
inclusive, and inviting space for the community.
Brian Paulson stated that he would not want his children to pick up Gender Queer and
called attention to other books in the Teen Section that he believes are problematic and
damaging which describe rape, drug and alcohol use, violence, and aduN-child
prostitution.
Rebecca Ward reported that Gender Queer was considered one of the best medical
graphic novels of 2019. Ms. Ward expressed surprise at the level of exposure to
questionable content teens have through TikTok and friends, and noted that Gender
Queer provides a more full -picture experience and context.
Marion Growney agrees that everyone should parent their own children and encourages
reading the full book to understand the context of the author's experiences, which
represents a healthy and consensual relationship between two young people. Ms.
Growney stated that this book is worth it if it prevents one child from committing suicide.
Christina Eckenroth spoke about raising awareness for child prostitution, abuse, and
human trafficking situations and experiences through books and other resources.
Ms. Pillow-Gnanaratnam thanked the audience for their participation and concluded the
public comment session at 7:50 p.m.
It. Request for Reconsideration of Materials: Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe
Ms. Lannon began a presentation developed in cooperation with the Head of Collection
Services and Collection Services Librarian on information regarding Gender Queer by
Maia Kobabe. Ms. Lannon summarized the Request for Reconsideration of Materials
submitted to the Board and the Library administrative email accounts on March 6, 2023,
alleging graphic depictions of child pornography, which is a federal felony crime to
possess or distribute.
Ms. Lannon reviewed the guiding principles of the Library's collection development
policy. The selection of any given Nem is not an endorsement of the viewpoint
expressed. The great diversity of the Library's customers means that the Library must do
more than provide materials for the common denominator to be effective. It is deemed
the responsibility of parents and caregivers to determine what their children may read,
watch or listen to. The selection of materials is not restricted by the possibility that young
people may obtain material their parents and caregivers consider inappropriate.
Ms. Lannon noted that Gender Queer is an award-winning memoir in the form of a
graphic novel. The Library purchased a physical and digital copy of the first edition of
the book in 2019, as well as a physical and digital copy of the second edition in 2022.
Page 13
Based on circulation, demand, and a missing copy, the Library obtained three more
physical copies of the first edition and one physical copy of the second edition in 2023.
Four physical copies are located in the Young Adult collection. One physical copy, is in
the Health Nook, with an additional copy in processing. The Health Nook is a generic
collection of health-related materials in the turret near the Teen Spot. A digital copy is
available on Overdrive and through the digital hoopla service.
The Library considers factors such as condition, related programs, number of holds, long
overdue items, and missing items when purchasing new or replacement copies. It is
common practice to increase and decrease the number of copies of a title over time.
Examples of this include the management of both hardcover and paperback bestsellers
and titles added or deleted to the Reading Public School summer reading lists. The
Library seeks to minimize wait times for items on hold that are highly in demand and
provide access to additional copies of book club materials.
The Library is a member of the North of Boston Library Exchange (NOBLE), which is a
consortium of 23 public and academic libraries in the area. Cardholders of all member
libraries can access digital copies of Overdrive materials, including Gender Queer, from
other library consortia systems through reciprocal lender arrangements. 11 NOBLE
communities have access to digital hoopla titles, including Gender Queer. Reading has
multiple copies of Gender Queer in addition to a copy in processing. 18 other libraries
have at least one physical copy of the book. Regular and consistent circulation of this
book demonstrates a steady demand since its acquisition. The Library has had 29 digital
circulations and 52 physical circulations, with 145 total physical circulations in the
NOBLE system.
Ms. Lannon reported that shelf location refers to where the item is in the library
collection. Most titles are found in one shelf location, although some titles may be found
in multiple collections such as the popular Harry Potterseries. 87% of libraries with
physical copies of Gender Queer have this title in their Young Adult (YA) or Teen area.
Six libraries have the item in their "Graphic Novel" shelving location due to its status as a
memoir in the form of a graphic novel. With no "Teen" or "YA" modifier, it is assumed
these graphic novel shelf locations are adult or non -age-specific collections. Publishers
and authors typically determine the appropriate audience for materials. Librarians also
reference age recommendations in journal reviews and descriptions provided by the
distributor.
The physical holdings of surrounding communities typically visited by Reading residents
were also examined. Digital copies of the book, available via Overdrive/Libby and
hoopla, were not taken into consideration. Lynnfield shelves the book as YA. Wlmington
and Andover have both YA and Adult shelving locations for the book. Gender Queer is
also included in Andover's summer reading. Wakefield, North Reading, and Woburn
have adult shelving locations for the book.
Ms. Lannon provided samples of journal review excerpts about Gender Queer and
reviewed the physical holdings of surrounding communities. Ms. Lannon clarified that the
Library's Children's room is generally considered to be for birth through grade six and
the Teen Area is for grade six through high school and young emerging adults. Ms.
Page 14
Pillow-Gnanaratnam noted that public comment has ended and the Board will be
focusing on their presentation and discussion.
Ms. Lannon reported that Gender Queer meets or exceeds the Library's collection
development standards and has adequate circulation to remain in the current YA and
Health collection locations. The number of physical copies should be added or reduced
according to the usual standards such as condition or demand. Circulation of the book
increased after the RFR, but existing copies demonstrated enough demand through
circulation to remain part of the collection before that. The complete removal from the
collection based on the RFR is considered censorship according to the American Library
Association. Moving the book to a different collection can also be seen as a form of
censorship, adding an access barrier for the intended audience. After reviewing the legal
definition of pornography, Ms. Lannon declared that there is also no evidence that the
book meets the definition of pornography or child pornography.
Motion.: To begin discussion of the March 6, 2023 Request for Reconsideration of
Materials regarding the removal of Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe from the Library
collection.
(GdmesrEgan)
Vote: Approved 6-0
Mr. Egan noted that no children were harmed in the creation of this book, which was not
a recording. The PROTECT Act statute was cited but is only applicable to depictions of
minors engaging in prohibited sexually explicit conduct. The context and content of the
book as a whole should also be considered when determining the appropriateness for
the community. Mr. Egan believes the specific drawings referenced were of adults
engaged in sexual activity rather than minors. Standards of political, artistic, and
scientific merit have been met per professional reviews. There have been no
prosecutions against publishers, libraries, or bookstores regarding this book. When
viewed as a whole, Mr. Egan does not believe that this coming -of -age story is harmful to
minors as the author navigates issues of gender and sexual identity over time from a
rather conservative view overall. Per Mr. Egan, there is both appropriate qualitative and
quantitative data to support the inclusion of the book in the Library collection per the
collection development policy. Mr. Egan understands that there are strong feelings and a
wide range of community interests and backgrounds. Mr. Egan noted that everyone may
find something objectionable in the Library and that it is up to parents to decide what
should be available for their own families.
Mr. Grimes appreciates Mr. Egan's legal perspective and agrees that the content of the
book should be considered as a whole. Although some pages push the limits of
acceptability, there are often similar instances of questionable content on television. Mr.
Grimes described how the book enhanced his understanding of people who are
questioning their gender or transitioning and believes the book provides important insight
and perspective to society as a whole on these issues. Acknowledgment of these issues
has evolved throughout the years. Mr. Grimes stated that more than halt of the book
focuses on puberty, which starts at age 11, and supports the Library's inclusion of the
book in the Teen collection.
Mr. Popp acknowledged the evolution of current contemporary community standards
and the importance of considering the book as a whole rather than taking certain pages
out of context. Mr. Popp believes that the book offers incredible value to people who
may need it, including readers with family members and friends going through similar
Gage 1 5
issues. Mr. Popp found the book to be a very enlightening view of the authors life. When
considered in context, Mr. Popp found the sexual images to be anti -sex in most cases,
showcasing the author's discomfort with their body and identity, rather than being
offensive for the sake of being offensive. Mr. Popp believes that the book presents
opportunities for important discussions and deserves to remain in the Teen collection.
Ms. Dubois has spent over 50 years as a public school and college teacher and has
personally witnessed students experiencing confusion about their identities and
undergoing gender transitions. Ms. Dubois believes that parents have a right to make
choices about what their children read. If parents do not personally assist their children
in selecting books, perhaps they should review choices at home. However, it is not
appropriate to decide for everyone what to read and not read. Ms. Dubois believes that
Gender Queer has literary merit and presents an intelligent and enlightening perspective
on the confusion of puberty that can enhance reader understanding.
Ms. Verner thanked the community for their thoughtful considerations and comments,
which have helped the Board consider the issue from different angles. Ms. Verner
believes that the book does not meet the definition of pornography. Ms. Verner cited an
email the Board received from the Massachusetts Library Association regarding the
importance of individuals making their own decisions about what to read and believe for
their own families, not other people's children. Ms. Verner acknowledged that everyone
wants what is best for their children and that each child needs to be supported uniquely.
Ms. Verner believes that the Library should provide choices for the community and
supports keeping the book in the Library collection.
Ms. Pillow-Gnanaratnam thanked the community and the Board for their participation in
the discussion of this issue. Ms. Pillow-Gnanaratnam's background in education and
student affairs has provided insight into the experiences of students navigating complex
emotions during times of crisis and the exploration of gentler identities. Ms. Pillow-
Gnanaratnam staled that the suicide rate among transgender students is extremely high
and discussed the importance of providing support services nationwide. Ms. Pillow-
Gnanaratnam does not support banning access to Gender Queer.
Motion: Upon consideration of the March 6, 2023 Request for Reconsideration of
Materials, to reject the request to remove Gender Queer by Mala Kobabe from the
Library collection.
(Egan/Dubois)
Vote.' Approved 6-0
Ms. Pillow-Gnanaratnam thanked the audience for holding their applause until the end
and declared an official meeting break at 8:27 p.m.
III. Financial Update: FY23 and FY24
The Trustee meeting reconvened at 8:38 p.m. with a financial update on FY 23 and FY
24. All audience members excused themselves during the meeting break. Ms. Lannon
reported that the Library finances are running smoothly according to the municipal
budget. The FY24 Library budget of $2,105,025 was formally approved at the April, 27a'
Town Meeting without any questions or discussion. Ms. Lannon briefly reviewed the
"FY24 Spending Scorecard" for the total municipal budget. The Library makes up 1.6%
of the total budget ($135,045,333).
Pape 1 6
Mr. Popp inquired about the meaning of encumbrances. Ms. Lannon and Mr. Grimes
explained that this is a governmental accounting tens representing unfulfilled purchase
order commitments for larger Items that can be carried over between fiscal years. Ms.
Lannon noted that the new exterior wrap design for the Library lockers is part of an
encumbrance using Foundation funds.
Ms. Verner inquired about the lack of questions and discussions regarding the Library
budget at Town Meeting. Ms. Lannon explained that this is typical and that questions
were posed at other points in the budget process by the Finance Committee and the
Select Board. In past years, questions were asked regarding the Director of Equity and
Social Justice position and the reduction of Sunday Library hours.
The Library received $22 in gifts in April.
IV. Director Report
Ms. Lannon reviewed a general snapshot of April statistics. Physical circulation and
Overdrive usage demonstrated strong circulation of both physical and digital library
resources. 56 Library programs were held and 1,819 reference questions were
answered. Visitor levels remain strong, though not at pre-COVID levels due to health
concerns at large programs. However, more specialized programs are now offered in
more intimate settings. The slowest time of day is between approximately 11:30 a. m.
and 1:00 p.m. most days. Midday closures would be impractical and would not help save
money.
In April, the Board approved $1,350 to pay for three Aunt Flow Model E feminine product
dispensers and supplies, with funds to come from the Foundation gift account. However,
the vendor offered a 15% discount on the cost of the dispensers for five units. These
units have been installed in all women's, family, and gender -neutral restrooms in the
building. When reviewing the gift accounts, Ms. Lannon discovered $1,864 remaining
from an FY2009 Life Health Access Grant, which will cover the new cost of $1,770 for
the five dispensers and supplies for the Period Equity Initiative.
Ms. Lannon thanked Senior Computer Technician Patrick McLaughlin for his assistance
in updating and setting up the technology necessary to conduct tonight's hybrid meeting
and facilitate an RCN broadcast. Ms. Lannon noted the human cost to technology, as
significant staff time has been devoted to setting up a new technology cart, logistics
planning, troubleshooting, and updates to make this hybrid setup successful. Town IT is
working to install and improve meeting technology in both the Conference Room and
Community Room at the Library.
Ms. Lannon confirmed that gifts from the Reading Public Library Foundation are funding
the locker wrap design. The locker wrap design is being completed by a local vendor,
Wrap Solutions, in May. A local vendor is also working on designs for custom benches
and bookcases for the new Tween space.
Town Counsel has confirmed that the Reading Public Libraries complies with all
Massachusetts State Laws, including Chapter 6, section 172H, regarding the conduction
of CORI checks. Accordingly, the Library will continue with its current procedures for
planning and implementing programs. The Library performs CORI checks on employees
and volunteers who work at the Library. Library staff will be working on a contract
Page 1 7
document for vendor services to better outline expectations regarding services and
commitments and may include an optional question about the vendor's CORI check
policy for its employees. Ms. Lannon explained the difficulty of negotiating with some
due to being unable to pay advance deposits. Mr. Popp expressed concerns about the
sensitive nature of the information collected during the CORI check process. Ms. Lannon
clarified that the Town's Human Resources department currently handles CORI checks
for employees and volunteers.
Ms. Lannon reported positive feedback from parents of children participating in the
Citizen Kids Series and Bouncing Broomsticks Book Club. Patrons also found the Job
Search series to be helpful and informative and requested similar future programming.
Community Health programming highlights include Mindful Meditation, Narcan Training,
McFarlane Therapeutic Arts sessions, Drink. The Intimate Relationship Between Women
and Alcohol Book Discussion, and a Postpartum Depression program. Ms. Lannon
emphasized the library's understanding and concern in supporting community members
of all ages with substance use and mental health issues. Non -library room bookings for
user and community events in April included the Reading Antiquarian Society, the
Reading Garden Club, RPS Multilingual LearnersCommunity Supports Fair,
Understanding Disabilities, and Reading Neighbors Network: Board Games.
After reviewing multiple Request for Proposal (RFP) submissions, the Town has
selected Opportunity Consulting to complete the Community, Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion (DEI) Audit. The project is funded through a $40,000 Community Compact
Grant and $25,000 from the Library's state aid funds. Funding and facilitating the
Community DEI Audit touches on all RPL core values and Strategic Plan focus areas.
Mr. Egan inquired about the nature of the community's participation in the project. Ms.
Lannon explained that the Trustees and Select Board are stakeholders in the project and
will receive progress updates. Focus groups, surveys, town hall events, and other
activities are planned for both in-person and online formats. Community needs will be
assessed through a qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Ms. Dubois complimented Reference Librarian Rebecca Bailey's appearance on the
popular game show Jeopardy on Thursday, April 27. Ms. Lannon announced that Olivia
McElwain has accepted a leadership role as Librarian II — Children's and will coordinate
programming, desk coverage, and services to children ages birth through 12, as well as
their parents, caregivers, and teachers. Ms. Lannon looks forward to seeing Ms.
McElwain bring her positive energy and boundless creativity to a new level in this role.
Ms. McElwain's former Children's Librarian I position is now vacant and will primarily
focus on serving tweens. Ms. Verner asked whether this was a new focus for this
position. Ms. Lannon clarified that this position would focus mainly on tween
programming, but would assist with programming for other age groups as well. After two
rounds of interviews with hiring teams composed of Library staff from multiple levels of
professionals, paraprofessionals, and departments, Elizabeth Weilbacher has accepted
the Librarian I — Reference and Elder Services position.
Due to various staffing changes since the Fall as well as extenuating circumstances in
the personal lives of several key employees, staff coverage has been a challenge in the
past few weeks. Ms. Lannon thanked the staff for their continued dedication in assuming
extra responsibilities and hours to make sure that Library services and operations
continued smoothly. Caroline Belcher and Lucy Lee have been hired as Substitute
Library Associates to provide additional coverage for future absences.
A'Grand Army of the Republic" book is being digitized from the Local History collection.
Local History Librarian Jocelyn Gould is assisting the Reading Antiquarian Society and
the Historical Commission to plan the 250" anniversary of the American Revolution in
December. Head of Research and Reader Services Andrea Fiorillo is working with the
Massachusetts Library Association to develop an asynchronous Intellectual Freedom
course. Librarians are preparing for upcoming school visits to promote the 2023 Summer
Reading Program "Find Your Voice'. Ms. Lannon described staff summer reading T-
shirts and offered to make them available for interested Trustees.
Ms. Lannon highlighted selected professional development recently completed by
Library staff and reminded the Board about Conflict of Interest training mandated by the
State. Ms. Verner discussed the learning opportunities presented by the recent Request
for Reconsideration and suggested a review of the Library's collection development
policy. Library staff will review and make recommendations. Policy changes can be
presented at one meeting and fully discussed by the Board, who will vote to approve a
finalized, updated copy of the policy at the subsequent meeting.
V. Approval of Minutes from April 10, 2023
Mr. Egan clarified the content of comments made on pages 2 and page 5. Ms. Dubois
pointed out a typo on page 9.
Motion: To approve the minutes of the April 10, 2023, Trustee Meeting as amended.
(Dubois/Vemer)
Vote: Approved 6-0
VI. Other Business
Mr. Egan reported on other public comments received by the Trustees unrelated to the
request for reconsideration that will be fully shared with the Board. One email pertained
to a Craftivism embroidery program sponsored by the Friends of the Reading Public
Library. The commenter raised concerns about the potential political bias of the
presenter due to some samples of their work found online. The commenter suggested a
broader and avoiding politicized embroidery especially when focused on middle and high
school students. A second email pertained to the 2023 pride parade which will be co-
sponsored by the Library, the Office of Equity and Social Justice, and Reading POP
Huddle. This email raised concerns about the Library co -sponsoring an event with a
political group.
Ms. Verner pointed out that she has followed up with past public commenters who have
not provided their full name and address to verity their Reading residency per the
Board's policy on public comment.
Adjournment 9:19 p.m.
Motion: To Adjoum (Verner/Popp)
Vote: Approved 6-0
Respectfully Submitted,
Andrew Grimes, Secretary
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BOARD OF LIBRARY TRUSTEES MEETING
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I. Public Comment
II. Request for Reconsideration of Materials: To remove Gender
Queer by Maia Kobabe from the Library Collection
III. Financial Update: FY23 and FY24
IV. Director Report
V. Approval of Minutes from April 10, 2023
7:05 - 7:50 P.M. (45 minutes)
In-person and Zoom participants may speak
2 minute limit per speaker
Please introduce yourself with your name and address
In-person: Form a line at the microphone
Zoom: Use the Raise Hand feature (phone •6 to primate, •9 to raise/lower hand)
Chair will recognize you and alternate between in-person and Zoom participants
Priority will be for those who have not spoken
5/22/2023"
Guiding Principles
Collection Development Policy
The Library does not advocate particular beliefs or views. The selection of any given item
is not an endorsement of the viewpoint expressed.
The great diversity of the library's customers means that the library must do mon, then
provide materials for the common denominator in order to be effective
It is deemed the responsibility of parents and caregivers to determine what their children
may read, watch or listen to, and selection of materials is not restricted by the possibility
that young people may obtain material their parents and caregivers consider
inappropriate.
Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe
AWARDS
Alex Award 2020
Rainbow Lists. 2020
Stonewall Honor. 2020
YALSA Great Graphic Novels for
Teens. 2020
School Library Journal Best
Graphic Novels'. 2019
Lion Forge Comics, May 2019 Ont Press, July 2022
5/22/2023
PURCHASE HISTORY
Reading Public Library
Lion Forge published the frit edition of Gender Queer in
2019. RPL purchased a digital copy in July 2019 and added a
physical copy In December 2019.
Oni Press released a second edition in 2022. RPL purchased
both a physical and digital copy of this edition in Jury 2022
and September 2022 respedively.
eased on circulation, demand, and a missing copy, RPL
ordered three more physical copies of the first edition in
January 2023 and one physical copy of the second edition in
April 2023.
Four physical copies are in the young Adult Wlledion and
one physical copy is in the Health Nook. Another copy for the
Health Nook is in processing. A digital copy is available on
Overdrive and through the RPL hoopla service.
CONSIDERATIONS L Condition OL
Ordering new or Related Programs
replacement copies RL
Reading Public Library (RPL) & NOBLE
HOLDINGS CIRCULATION
• RPL Digital Copies2 • Total RPL Digital Cires 29
• RPL Physical Copies 4 • Total RPL Physical Cires 52
• NOBLE Physical Copies' 25 • Total NOBLE Physical Cires 145
'hoopla is available in 11 communities
' 22 available and 3 on order or in processing.
18 of 2311brories awn or have ordered the book
0
SHELF LOCATION
(NOBLE)
69% of physical copies
Teen
Young Adult(YA)
The author, publisher, review ioumals,
and distributors classify the tale
Young Adult (YA)
16.
Grades 9 - 12
10
5/22%2023
A
Shelf Location:
Surrounding Communities
NOBLE
MVLC
• Wakefield Adult
• North Reading Adult
• Lynnfield YA
• Wilmington YA, Adult
• Andover YA, Adult
4Included in Summer Reading
Minuteman
• Woburn Adult
11
REVIEWS (Excerpts)
School Library Journal:
r Started Review'/ Gr 9 Up—... E describes common situations from the perspective of someone wtm is
asexual and nonbinary starting a new schcol, getting eir period, dating, attending college.... Its also a
great resource for those who identify as nonbinary or asexual as well as for those who know someone who
identifies that way and wish to batter understand
Bookliat:
Vulnerable and honest, Gender Queer grapples with issues of identity and sexuality in ways that highlight
how messy and painful but uibmately vindicating the process of understanding and valuing yourself can be
_. Highly recommended reading for those on their own journey of mpiomtion w those supporting the
explorers in their own lives Gender Queer exists so a new generation can see the words and experiences
to help them feel whole and seen.
Publishers Weekly:
This heartfelt graphic memoir relates, with sometimes painful honesty, the experience of growing up non -
gender -conforming. From a very young age, Kobabe is unsure whether to claim a lesbianlgay. bisexual, or
even transgender identity 'I dont want to be a gid. I don't want to be a boy either I just want to be myself
12
5/22/2023
3
ANALYSIS AND
• Meets or exceeds collection
RECOMMENDATION
development standards
• Adequate circulation
Leave the title inthe cur
collection locations (VA andnd Health),
• Removal from the collection based
adding or reducing the number of
on the RFR is censorship according
physical copies according to usual
standards such as condition and
to the American Library
demand.
Association
• There is no evidence that the book
meets the definition of
pornography or child pornography.
33
5/2iy2023-