RCLS library director refuses to comply with board's book restrictions; faces disciplinary action or termination on March 30
Rutherford County Library System (RCLS) director Luanne James emailed members of the RCLS board on Wednesday, March 18, stating her refusal to comply with the board’s March 16 vote to restrict access to more than 100 children’s books. A copy of that email was obtained through an open records request by the library advocacy group Rutherford County Library Alliance. It is included below as a PDF.
RCLS chair Cody York has scheduled a special board meeting for March 30 to discuss disciplinary action for Ms. James. The Daily News Journal reports that York said, “As chair, I believe this matter warrants serious disciplinary consideration, up to and including termination.” The special-called meeting will take place at 5 p.m. at the Rutherford County Historic Courthouse. It will be open to the public.
Local reporting on this story
“Rutherford library director refuses to move children’s gender-related books to adult section.” The Daily News Journal (requires subscription)
“Rutherford County Library System director facing termination after refusing book relocation order.” WSMV4
“Tenn. library director refuses board order to move children’s books.” NewsChannel 5
“Rutherford County library director refuses to remove 190 children’s books.” WKRN.com
Religious zealot dictates are bad in Iran, but ok in Rutherford County? We don’t need people like Cody York “protecting” us; we need protection from people like Cody York.
Strong and principled letter, Ms. James. Good luck to you. Those of us who still value and exercise our 1st amendment rights are grateful.