[Michlib-l] Religion in the library

[Debra Biggs]

You know, personally I would just steer clear of pointing out in display, program or otherwise religions or religious holidays.  Purchasing library materials—books and media—is certainly a way of providing the information about such to one’s patron’s.  Don, I’m sure you directed your patron to whomever is involved in the Nativity display.  There are many municipalities around Michigan who still display one during the Christmas holiday.  Freedom of speech and expression is the rule, but imo libraries have many, many more neutral options when it comes to promotions.

Just my 2 cents ;-)

Deb Biggs Tenbusch

From: michlib-l-bounces at mcls.org [mailto:michlib-l-bounces at mcls.org] On Behalf Of Don Priest via Michlib-l
Sent: Thursday, June 14, 2018 11:55 AM
To: michlib-l <michlib-l at mcls.org>
Subject: [Michlib-l] Religion in the library

Hi, hoping to get some feedback on a patron complaint.  He took issue with a Nativity that gets put up in front of the library every year, and it's got me wondering if we're implicitly supporting one religion over another.  The library isn't actually responsible for the Nativity, but it's easy to see why people would think we are.  We also put up a Christmas tree every year, and though it has no religious iconography, I'm wondering if we should avoid it in the future.  My research has led me to believe we're not out of line, but religion can be a touchy issue. I'm interested to hear from anyone who has fielded similar complaints, or has a deeper understanding of the issue.  I'm asking around here about the Nativity, just to make sure I have all the facts.

He also took issue with a Pride Month display we have up, as evil according to his religion.  I'm not planning on taking that down, but if anyone has answered a similar challenge I would appreciate hearing how it went.

Don Priest
Southgate Veterans Memorial Library
14680 Dix-Toledo Rd.
Southgate, MI 48195
734-258-3002 ext. 3003
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