Re: Books Banned in Utah.

On Fri, 9 Aug 2024, Don_from_AZ wrote:

I would mind however, if Mein Kampf, Maos red book or Das Kapital were
banned. I think those books are pure garbage, but at least it should be
possible for everyone to form his own conclusion, and Das Kapital is also
interesting from a history of philosophy point of view (which I personally
enjoy).

>
Agreed, but i'd also want librarians to explain the context behind it.
The same as they should do with any other book.
--scott

>
This is sensitive to me. If I'm in the library I would definitely not
have someone review and tell me what to think about what I read. I
would like to reach my own conclusions.
>
How is this context explaining done in todays libraries in the US?
When I last visited a library to borrow a book, several decades ago,
the process was:
>
1. Find book.
2. Take book to check out counter.
3. Take book home and read.
>
No lecturing, in fact, no one even cared. On the other hand... if the
library had a service where I could go and discuss the book, that
would actually be quite nice!

>
When I was growing up in Woodbury NJ I got my science fiction books at
the local library. I don't recall any specific "children's section" but
I did have to go to the librarian at the desk to check out books, and
they could theoretically have told me the book was too "mature" for me
and prevented me checking it out, or given me some context. None ever
did, as I recall.
>
In my local library here in Arizona, you pick your book from the
shelves, walk over to a computer terminal, scan your card, scan the
book's bar code, and walk out. No vetting, no discussion.
>
 -Don-
>

True! That shows how long ago it was since I visited a library. I am certain that the human being has been taken out of the equation now that you mention it.
On the other hand, there is a small library on the street where I live and I have seen 1 or 2 older women sitting there all day so there is opportunity for interaction if you want it. ;)