SUMNER COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — In a packed room filled with familiar faces and firm opinions, the Sumner County Library Board once again faced off over whether books containing transgender or "gender confusing" content should remain in elementary school libraries.

It was the board's first meeting since July when a revised policy to remove such books failed to pass. The divide this week was just as sharp.

"And now it's to get the libraries back in order into a conservative viewpoint and to clean them up," Sumner County Library Board Chair Joanna Daniels said.

"Oh my God, lady, please. I'll walk myself out," a man shouted from the pews.

The controversy began in May when the board tabled the first proposal to remove the books. A month ago, the revised policy failed.

"We don't need to ban books," one woman said. "If parents think their kid shouldn't be reading something, then they can ask them what they're reading."

A longtime teacher voiced frustration: "As a teacher of 30 years, I am absolutely disgusted that adults would try to ban books at a public institution."

"Education is freedom," an advocate told the board. "Reading what you want is freedom."

Supporters of the ban argued the fight isn't over.

"Please protect the children," another parent said. "Adults can choose. If you want to be transgender, that's your choice. We aren't talking about that. I want to make sure it's not reflecting on the children."

Even board members sparred, questioning each other over procedure and the county attorney's involvement.

"You want the county attorney to look over every single policy we create?" Daniels asked.

"That would suit me just fine," one board member answered, drawing laughter.

For now, the books stay. The next meeting is scheduled for October, and not many expect this chapter to be the last.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/sumner-county-library-board-again-rejects-ban-on-transgender-themed-books/