From: Cathey Ryder
To: [email protected]
Subject: HB CC 2/20 Agenda Item 24
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 8:19:00 AM
HB CC 2/20 Agenda
Transparency and Accountability were promised during the 2022 election cycle by those who were elected to the Huntington Beach City Council. Agenda Item 24 asks for transparency and accountability. I expect there to be an unanimous vote for this agenda item.
If not, then we know that the council majority has no intention to be transparent or wants to be held accountable.
Vote Yes on Agenda Item 24.
CJ Ryder
HB Homeowner and Voter
2/20/2024
24 (24-143)
From: David Rynerson
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: RE: REQUEST FOR TRANSPARENCY AND DETAILED REPORTING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION 2023-41 REGARDING LIBRARY MATERIAL ACCESSIBILITY
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 11:58:40 AM
HB City Council -
Consider this my statement of strong support for Council Member Moser's request for transparency and reporting on the implementation of Resolution 2023-41.
What the Council Member is asking for is straight forward common sense information and processes that should have been thought out and presented at the time the resolution was initially passed. Instead, both citizens and librarians have endured months of opaque, unclear, and frankly capricious decisions about what books can be where, who can access them, procedures regarding new book acquisitions, rights of under age citizens, etc.
What the Council Member is asking for should have been all worked out before the resolution was even presented at the city council meeting, once again highlighting the ineptitude and capriciousness of the council majority. The classic, "Ready, Fire, Aim!" we've seen over and over again.
This request should be implemented with clear input from both librarians and citizens - not the unilateral desires of one Council Member.
It's the least you can do.
David Rynerson
6272 Newbury Drive
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
From: Lindsay K
To: [email protected]
Subject: 24-143 Item Submitted by Council Member Moser - Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:30:27 PM
As expected, the vague and unworkable Huntington Beach Public Library book ban resolution 2023-41 passed 4-3 by the HB City Council has resulted in upheaval at our beloved public library. Useful books written for children and parents have been removed from the children's area and relegated to a recently installed bookshelf wedged between the rotating art exhibit and a quiet study area. So far the books include materials on potty training, puberty and menstruation but more are soon to follow.
In addition the area formerly called "Teen Central" has presumably been folded into the adult section with the removal of its demarcating sign. The message is that in society there are small children and adults with no stage in between. I think most folks with any recent experience with middle or high school students know they face a range of challenges - social, physical and emotional - that are vastly different than those of small children. Books written for and about tweens and teens should and do reflect those differences. It is up to parents, not library staff, to determine what books are appropriate their family. Restricting materials severely limits parents from using their own judgement and tells tweens and teens that books about their lives are so dangerous or dirty as to need to be separated even from other adult materials.
The stated goal of the City Council's vague policy is to restrict all patrons under 18 from accessing "sexual material". l don't understand why that is their decision now and not the parent or guardian's choice. Traditionally libraries have arranged materials by age group using interest level and comprehension as guidelines - usually kids (0-12), teen (13-17) and adult.
These groupings are to help the library user find what they are looking for but they are NOT designed to stop anyone from checking books or materials out. That has always been between the parent and child. Parents who did not want to give their children or teens "carte blanche" could closely monitor their child in the library or opt out of getting their child a card at all and instead use their own card. Parents who wanted to give their children entirely free range would also be able to follow that approach provided they followed the library's unattended minor policy and supervised their child under 11 in the library.
Restricting the checking out of public library materials by age is a form of book banning. The American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, Article V states " A person’s right to use a
library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.” The community is beginning to see what a farce Resolution 2023-41 is as evidenced by the books moved so far. I appreciate Councilwoman Moser's request for clarity on the implementation of the book ban resolution but have very low expectations that it will pass. My great hope is that the library users themselves will witness what is happening and speak out for they are the ones who will be most affected. I have seen no evidence the four members of the City Council who voted for the resolution have used our lovely library in any other way than as a pawn in their strange war on a welcoming society. The only responsible and logical solution is to return to regular library practice and let parents determine for their families what their kids and teens can and cannot check out. Free people read freely.
Sincerely,
Lindsay Klick
Mother, HB Resident, Children's Librarian, Reader
From: Lee Marie Sanchez
To: [email protected]
Subject: SUPPORT FOR COUNCIL MEMBER NATALIE MOSER Agenda Item 24-143 Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:42:27 PM
Dear Huntington Beach Council Members ~
This is to inform you that I am in total support of Council Member Natalie Moser concerns regarding the TRANSPARENCY AND DETAILED REPORTING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION 2023-41 REGARDING LIBRARY MATERIAL ACCESSIBILITY.
Your constituents absolutely need to know what is happening regarding the relocation of books to the adult section, closure of the teen section, volunteer parent review board committee, new policies for library cards, and other restrictions.
My family has lived in Huntington Beach for over 52 years and we have been huge supporters of our Huntington Beach Library, Librarians and all staff members. We must have this information to determine our further actions in these matters.
~ Sincerely, Rev. Lee Marie Sanchez (Retired & Voting)
From: Linda Moon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Feb 20, 2024 Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:52:17 PM
I am writing in support of Agenda Item 24-123, Resolution 2023-41, requiring disclosure and transparency with regard to new regulations for access to library materials. Libraries are essential to the support of a well informed and educated community. Any changes to current rules for access to library materials should be made only after full disclosure to the public, with opportunity for public comment and participation.
The minimally announced changes removing the Teen Section of the library, removal of materials from the Children's section and limitation of access to materials for anyone under 18 are misguided and fly in the face of the purpose of libraries to provide community members broad opportunities for education and enrichment. Restrictions for minor's access should be imposed by parents and guardians, based upon their own values, not those of the City Council Majority.
Linda Sapiro Moon
Huntington Beach
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:57:48 PM
I fully support Agenda Item 24-143 for complete transparency on library material accessibility and all city government.
A 52 year resident of Huntington Beach
From: Erin Spivey
To: [email protected]
Subject: Support Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:18:13 PM
To the City Council,
I heartily support Agenda Item 24-143. The library resolution passed in October was vague at best, malicious at worst. This agenda item will provide some much needed transparency on how exactly the October resolution is being implemented. As community members and Huntington Beach residents, transparency is the very minimum we should expect for our city government.
Sincerely,
Erin Spivey
Sent from my iphone, please excuse any typos
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:20:44 PM
I urge you all to vote for Natalie’s request for transparency regarding the relocation of books to the adult section, closure of the teen section and new policies for library cards.
From: Carol Daus
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Agenda Item 24
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:36:11 PM
Dear Council Members,
I am in support of Council Member Moser'sa Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility.
Since the resolution was passed and implemented, library patrons and the community at large have been confused about how the new library policies are being enacted. Council Member's outline for identifying and communicating the steps is a step in the right direction, however, I'm still very concerned about limiting books and materials to so many readers.
As an active volunteer at the library, I have lots of residents asking me questions and I don't know how to answer them.
I look forward to attending the meeting to find out more.
Sincerely,
Carol Daus
HB Resident, 29 years
From: Barbara Van Dine
To: [email protected]
Subject: Library Takeover
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 4:35:48 PM
Public libraries were founded in the United States to ensure that all people had equal access to all written material as part of being a democracy.
The City Council majority's decision (without voter input) to overhaul the HB Public Library by banning books, changing signage, moving books, changing library cards and controlling what books are purchased (all of which are the duties of the head Librarian, a professionally trained individual in Library Science), defeats the purpose and intent of a Public Library, No doubt the next step if they stay true to the national right-wing agenda, will lead to a "majority" vote to privatize the library at the HB citizen's expense. This is nothing short of a gut punch to the First Amendment and the freedom the citizens of the United States have to access information and to be a freely educated people. What this is is a nationally-sponsored right-wing (MAGA) agenda to attack our constitutional rights and the freedoms we are so proud of.
Barbara Van Dine
27 year resident of Huntington Beach
From: Vicky Shuttleworth
To: [email protected]
Subject: Concerns on Resolution 23-41
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:03:52 PM
Dear HB City Council,
I have several concerns about Resolution 23-41 as it appears to contradict the Library Bill of Rights:
1. What credentials will the parents/volunteers to the Review Board Committee present to show they are qualified to review library materials?
2. What Standards will be followed by this Committee?
3. What restrictions will be placed on library cards?
4. Does this mean that everyone has to get a new library card? Have you considered the cost this part of the resolution?
5. Why would you close the teen section when we need to encourage literacy in our youth and community?
6. Where are you finding the funds to implement the costs of re-cataloging the books? I hope you provide answers to these and other questions in a transparent manner.
Vicky Shuttleworth
HB resident since 1987
From: Diane Pavesic
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Resolution 2023-41
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:07:08 PM
Huntington Beach City Council Members,
I am writing to to inform you that I am in complete support of Council Member Natalie Moser’s concerns regarding the TRANSPARENCY ANDS DETAILED REPORTING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION 2023-41 REGARDING LIBRARY MATERIAL ACCESSIBILITY.
The constituents who voted you in office have a right to know what is happening regarding the relocation of books to the adult section ,closure of the teen section, volunteer parent partner review board committee ,new policy for library cards and the additional proposed restrictions.
I have lived in Huntington Beach for 34 years and am no longer proud to live here. Please get on with taking care of the actual needs of the City instead of creating problems that do not actually exist. Please allow the librarians to do the jobs they were trained to do.
Sincerely,
Diane M. Pavesic
BSN, CCM, IAYT
Sent from my iPad
From: Ellie Johnson
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:38:20 PM
To the members of Huntington Beach City Council,
I hope you will approve the Agenda item 24-143. As a member of the community and a supporter of the wonderful library we have, we need to understand how decisions are being made to effectively change the way our library functions. This agenda item details the ways in which that transparency should be conducted. If you have nothing to hide, approve this agenda item.
Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Johnson
From: Harry McLachlan
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Feb. 20, 2024 Agenda Item 24.
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:53:34 PM
Attachments: Huntington Beach City Council Feb. 20, 2024.docx Please see attached comment.
Huntington Beach Special City Council Meeting February 20, 2024 Agenda Item 24, No. 24-143
My name is Harry McLachlan. I am a resident of Huntington Beach.
I am writing in support of agenda item 24, calling for a comprehensive report on the implementation of Resolution 2023-41. I agree with request numbers 1 through 7 in their entirety.
I am hoping that the entire council will vote to approve this item in unified support of the right of all our citizens to ensure detailed clarity and transparency in the implementation of Resolution 2023-41.
Please vote yes on agenda item 24.
From: Paul Horgan
To: [email protected]
Subject: Request for transparency / library material accessibility Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:54:06 PM
Greetings:
This e-mail is submitted in support of Council Member Natalie Moser's request for transparency regarding Huntington Beach Library material accessibility, which I understand is pending for consideration by the Huntington Beach City Council.
Council Member Moser's resolution is rational, concise. and timely. Please approve it.
Thank you.
Paul Horgan
Huntington Beach
From: Sue Welfringer
To: [email protected]
Subject: Supporting 24-143 - REQUEST FOR TRANSPARENCY AND DETAILED REPORTING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF RESOLUTION 2023-41 REGARDING LIBRARY MATERIAL ACCESSIBILITY Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 7:30:45 PM
Thank you, Councilmember Moser, for your Agenda Item, showing support for our librarians and library patrons by asking for clarification on what is deemed “sexual content” in literature for children. It is not a big ask to request specific instruction in this manner.
For example, last week I read a compelling YA novel by award-winning children’s author Gary Paulsen, titled NightJohn. The story made me uncomfortable, as intended. It is okay to be uncomfortable in the safe space of literature.
The novel is classified by the publisher for audiences in the 10–13-year-old range. I read and discussed it with an 8
th grade student. This deeply touching novel is based on the true story of a runaway slave who risked his life to teach other slaves to read and write. Regarding the question of sexual content: In this story, 11-year Sarny, is dreading when her “troubles” start because it is likely she will be selected as a breeder. Her mother was apparently a good breeder, too, and sold before Sarny would ever get to know her. Sarny tells of what happened to another girl, Alice:
(p.42-43)…her body was all right and they in the white house decided she be a good breeder and so they set her for that.
She didn’t set well to it and fought and they tied her to make it happen, in the breeding shed back of the quarters…
Breeding shed??? Does this make you uncomfortable? I hope so. But it is not simply that we are reading a scene describing child rape that makes us want to vomit. It’s learning that not too long ago, white Americans thought “breeding sheds” were okay! It appears to me that your directive, as it currently stands, does not want an 8
th grader to learn about this.
NightJohn is only one of thousands of stories in any library collection that includes some reference to “sexual content” while telling deeply important stories. When you take passages out of context you are missing the true intent of the author. Worse, you are miscalculating how the story builds empathy, compassion, and relevant human connections for the young reader (and the adult who might read it with them.) I’m still thinking about this story!
If you are unable to be more specific in your “sexual content” directive to the librarians and library patrons, I trust your constituents will understand if you decide to leave the library collection to the librarians and the reading choices to the parents.
Based on the book titles already removed for the children’s section, certainly we all agree that clarification is required. Please make that happen.
Regards,
Sue Welfringer
27-year HB Resident & community volunteer
From: Tony Daus
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: February 20 City Council Meeting - Agenda Item 24 Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 7:43:05 PM
Council Members,
I am in support of Council Member Moser's Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility.
Since the resolution was passed and apparently implemented (with limited public notice), I have been confused about how the new library policies are being enacted and I suspect that I am not alone. I am not in support of the actions that the City Council's conservative majority, and their obedient city attorney Michael Gates, have undertaken to screen and ban books and limit access to minors. I raised three children who have grown up to be successful, honorable adults and they had their run of the library. We encouraged it! I don't need the City Council to act as a parent.
Sincerely,
Tony Daus
HB Resident, 29 years
From: Kathryn Goddard
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 8:59:19 PM
I write in support of agenda item 24-143 introduced by Natalie Moser, Council Member. I urge your approval of this request for transparency in the changes which affect our library.
Citizens of all ages seek knowledge and share the library as both resource and as a place to engage with one another. Librarians are a valuable resource for the education of all. The joy and journey of acquiring knowledge and determining one’s own position of what is real, what is true and what is good is best served by a broad selection of thought.
Knowledgeable, trained librarians are an integral part of this journey. Members of the City Council are selected by citizens to manage the affairs of the city to include concerns such as infrastructure, safety, appearance. They are neither trained nor elected to manage the libraries.
The current Council majority has determined that the holdings of the library should be managed in a manner that is not understood by the electorate. It is important to all of us that we understand what you are attempting to accomplish by defining sexuality as the single measure of locating books in an area which is closed to many. What is the goal of tasking educated librarians to use a natural human activity as a method of sorting knowledge? Kathryn Goddard, resident over 30 years
Sent from my iPad
From: Pat Goodman
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Vote Yes on Agenda Item 24
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 9:10:03 PM
Dear City Councilmembers,
Please vote YES on the February 20th city council agenda item # 24.
This item, a Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 regarding Library Material Accessibility would asuage residents' concern on the administration of implementation of restrictions on availability of certain children's literature.
Councilmember Moser's agenda item would provide a level of credibility to recent actions to relocate books from the children's and teen sections to the adult library.
Patrons, especially parents and grandparents, of the library do not know how to access these publications and why they have been moved.
I also wonder what happened to the implementation of the citizen panel to review books for certain sexual content?
The procedures identified in agenda item #24 would help document the rationale and publications moved to the adult section.
Thank you.
Pat Goodman
Huntington Beach, CA
From: Fran Delaney
To: [email protected]
Subject: Transparency in Changes to the Library per Resolution 2023-41 Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 9:22:47 PM
Dear Huntington Beach City Council Members,
I have great concerns about the implementation of Resolution 2023-41 and the proposed changes to the library. The Huntington Beach Library system stands out in California as an exemplary system of management and service to the community. We need to understand how this resolution will affect the libraries that we support, frequent, and pay for.
Councilwoman Moser has put forth a request for full transparency in the workings of this resolution. It appears that none of the structures needed to fairly and ethically carry out this resolution are in place. The public needs to understand exactly what you intend to do to our libraries and how it will affect our community.
I support all areas of Councilwoman Moser's request. This step for control over a system that is effective and serves the community in such a powerful way should never have been tampered with, but since it did pass on such a slim majority, it is time that you step forward and explain what your true intentions are and how it will complicate the lives of Huntington Beach citizens.
Fran Delaney-Barron
Resident
“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead
From: Chris Kawahara
To: [email protected]
Subject: Support for Agenda item #24
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:05:10 PM
Dear Council Members,
I am writing to express my support for Natalie Moser’s agenda item #24.
I definitely think that there needs to be transparency of the library restrictions/changes that are currently taking place at the Huntington Beach Public Library.
I think that these restrictions are a violation of the 1st Amendment and are politicizing issues unnecessarily.
Thank you,
Christina Kawahara
A resident of Huntington Beach for over 38 years.
Sent from my iPhone
From: Buffie Channel
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Support Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:28:39 PM
To City Council:
I am writing in support of Agenda Item 24-143.
We need to see the criteria for the books chosen that were moved into the XAdult section of the library.
We need to see the official list of books that were moved.
We need to understand what will happen to the Teen Section of the library.
We need to be advised of any future plans, criteria, and method of moving books.
We need to be advised how we challenge a book that was moved and request it is moved back to its appropriate section.
We need to be advised the status of the citizen committee and the process of how the members are chosen, how they were chosen, why they were chosen, and the details of any personal ties committee members have to Council members. We also need to know the exact details of when, how, and where this committee will meet and how the public can observe the meeting under the Brown Act.
Sincerely,
Buffie Channel
35 year HB resident and homeowner
From: Melanie Tioleco-Cheng
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Keep our Libraries PUBLIC and free from book bans Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:30:24 PM
Dear City Council,
As a 20 year resident of Huntington Beach and a pediatrician who also has the pleasure and privilege of taking care of kids in our area, I respectfully support Natalie Moser's proposal for more transparency in the new library committee. (Resolution 2023-41)
I was one of hundreds of HB residents who have spoke out at several meetings opposing what is essentially a book ban. Since October 2023, several books have been moved outside of the children's section into the adult section, including books on toilet training and puberty. For example, one book in particular, The Care and Keeping of You, which is put out by the American Girl company has shockingly been made UNAVAILABLE to the young readers it was meant for. This book is recommended for ages 8 and up with the sequel recommended for ages 10 and up and I unequivocally recommend this book to my young patients as it talks about friendship issues, body changes, good hygiene, and more.
This is just one example of many books which have been 'restricted', which means access has been limited, which means these books essentially have been banned.
Why, I may ask, would this committee do such a thing? Is therir opinion more important than mine, a mother of two kids? A pediatrician who has been practicing for decades? Or more important than a librarian who has been trained in library sciences?
Please let the rest of Huntington Beach, and the world, see what is actually happening in this library committee.
The teen section signs have already been taken down. It makes me so sad to see that the library in which I have been going to for 21 years--the one in which I have taken my two kids for their whole lives--is being torn apart.
Allow us parents to CHOOSE what we think is and is not appropriate for our own children to read. We do not need the government to tell us what to read.
Sincerely,
Melanie Tioleco-Cheng
From: Erick Ruiz
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: RE: Urgent Call for Transparency in Implementing Resolution 2023-41 Date: Monday, February 19, 2024 11:34:04 PM
Dear Huntington Beach City Council Members,
I am writing to urgently express my adamant support for Council Member Natalie Moser's agenda item 24-143, which demands transparency and detailed reporting on the implementation of Resolution 2023-41 concerning library material accessibility. As a resident of Huntington Beach and a staunch advocate for open access to information, I am deeply concerned about the potential consequences of censorship and restrictions on library materials, particularly regarding children's access.
Let me be unequivocal: the notion of shielding children from certain information by restricting access within libraries is profoundly flawed and counterproductive. Keeping children in a bubble only pique their curiosity further, and it fails to address the real issue. The real problem lies in the widespread accessibility of harmful content and information on platforms such as YouTube and TikTok, where many children spend a significant amount of their time.
Instead of imposing blanket restrictions on library materials, we should trust in the expertise of librarians who are trained in research and obtaining materials. Librarians are adept at curating content appropriate for different age groups and guiding children towards valuable resources.
Placing the power to make decisions about access to information in the hands of trained professionals is far more effective and sensible than leaving it to the city council's discretion.
As a second-year law student, I am particularly attuned to upholding fundamental principles of freedom of information and expression. Censorship and restrictions on access to library materials infringe upon these principles and hinder intellectual growth and development.
I implore the City Council to reconsider the approach outlined in Resolution 2023-41 and to prioritize transparency and open dialogue with the community. By doing so, we can work together to address the root causes of concerns about children's exposure to inappropriate content while upholding the principles of openness and inclusivity that are fundamental to our society.
Thank you for taking a look at this urgent matter. I trust that the City Council will act in the best interests of our community and uphold the values of transparency and freedom of information.
Sincerely,
Erick Alexander Ruiz Jr.
J.D. Candidate, Class of 2025
LexisNexis, Law School Associate
Student Bar Association, 2L Representative
Student Bar Association, Faculty Appointments Committee Western State College of Law
Phone: (562) 303-7393
From: [email protected]
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Support Agenda Item #24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 4:27:01 AM
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
I am writing in support of agenda item #24.
As has become the MO of the majority councilmembers, agenda items, resolutions, and ordinances are passed based on an emotional response to an issue without much thought as to the practical application of the measures once they are enacted.
A resolution was passed in October 2023 with regard to restricting access to library materials if the items include "content of sexual nature". The resolution did not include any direction that defines sexual nature. The resolution did not include any objective rationale for choosing which materials were to be removed. The resolution did not address the destruction of the "Teen Central" area, but it occurred concurrently with the removal of a large number of books from the children's and young adult sections of the library. Is there a plan for the teen area? Is there a plan for the teens who would ordinarily hang out in the library? Where do you think these teens will go if they no longer have a safe place to hang out? All of these issues have caused a great deal of concern in the community and could have been avoided if all of the questions and parameters requested in this agenda item had been addressed prior to the implementation of the poorly written and unneeded resolution from October 2023. If only some of the community members would have raised these concerns back then, maybe this confusion could have been avoided.... but wait, the community spent hours and hours providing public comment to warn the council of all of these complications that would arise from the nanny-state book-restricting resolution.
Now that we are here and the resolution has taken effect, let's make sure it is the least destructive as possible. Let's have complete transparency regarding the criteria for books being removed and restricted. Let's get a list of all the books that are being removed so parents/guardians will know they have to take their kids to the ugly/boring locked up section instead of the relaxing and inviting children's section. Let's make sure we have procedures for processing the new youth library cards, so parents/guardians don't have to waste time when they try to comply with the new hurdles their teens will have to overcome just to have access to books.
The best thing that can be done is to rescind this resolution, but barring that, let's at least make it functional so our residents can enjoy the library as much as possible.
Sincerely,
Dianne
From: Andrew Einhorn
To: [email protected]
Subject: I support item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 4:54:04 AM
Dear HB City Council, I support item 24-143 and the development of a report on the implementation of resolution 2023-41.
Sincerely,
Andrew Einhorn
HB Resident
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Item agenda 24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 5:59:30 AM
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Barbara Shapiro <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:50:52 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Item agenda 24
I support item agenda 24 on February 20, 2024 CC meeting.
Sent from my iPad
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Implementation of Resolution 23-41
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:00:18 AM
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Sue Brewsaugh <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:19:53 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Implementation of Resolution 23-41
Please pass Councilwoman Moser’s regarding resolution 23-41. However you feel about the resolution, it’s critical that both the library staff and the community understand both the criteria its implementation process.
Thank you,
Sue Brewsaugh
HB resident and voter
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Support for Agenda item #24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:00:42 AM
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Chris Kawahara <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 10:03:45 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Support for Agenda item #24
Dear Council Members,
I am writing to express my support for Natalie Moser’s agenda item #24.
I definitely think that there needs to be transparency of the library restrictions/changes that are currently taking place at the Huntington Beach Public Library.
I think that these restrictions are a violation of the 1st Amendment and are politicizing issues unnecessarily.
Thank you,
Christina Kawahara
A resident of Huntington Beach for over 38 years.
Sent from my iPhone
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:01:15 AM
Get Outlook for iOS
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 8:28:57 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility
Dear City Council Members,
As a mother of three adult children and grandmother of seven (ranging in ages between 9 and 27) , I am outraged and grieved to live in community where some members of its governing body feels it is the city's right to generate and implement Resolution 2023-41.
This Resolution hijacks the responsibility and privilege that parents have to monitor their children's reading, leaving decisions regarding the appropriateness of books to complete strangers. It is not the City Council's responsibility.
I highly support Council Member Natalie Moser's Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility, and urge you to prepare and present a comprehensive report as requested.
It concerns me greatly that the Council initiated the process of removing and reorganizing books without a thorough review of the impact this Resolution will have on our community. Resolution 2023-41 should never have been passed in the first place.
Sincerely,
Susan Schumann
8933 Modesto Circle Unit 1214D
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Support for Agenda Item 24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:01:27 AM
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From: Barbara Richardson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 8:21:08 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Support for Agenda Item 24
Honorable Mayor and Council Members
I am sending this email to show my support for Natalie's Moser's agenda item 24, seeking transparency of library changes.
Because all the books in the children's collection have received positive reviews from accredited review sources, without clearly written instructions, it is almost impossible to determine what titles to relocate. The bathing suit rule is so broad and vague, it could mean that all books that have a photo or drawing of Michelangelo’s David, and any book that had a drawing or photo of a Greek statue would have to be removed.
Volumes from the World Book Encyclopedia would need to be relocated and well as reference books on diseases.
As for sexual nature/content; would all children's books that show hugging, kissing or talk of kissing and love have to be relocated? Think of Valentine's Day stories, many of those deal with kissing and hugging. Another example, what if the mother in the story is pregnant, does that show implied sexual content? You can see how difficult this can become.
To help fight the confusion, I believe the librarians should be given a written list of all the titles that Council believes are unacceptable and need to be relocated.
Thank you
Barbara Richardson
51 year HB resident
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Library Transparency
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:01:41 AM
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From: lori berberet <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 6:31:30 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Library Transparency
Dear HB City Council Members:
I have been seeking what the changes are as proposed by the HB City Council to our library. I have not been able to find anything in writing that shares the changes that have occurred within that system.
It is time for the City Council to be fully transparent with the plan moving forward with the HB Public Library. I am aware that there is an agenda item for tomorrow's meeting seeking transparency.
As a citizen of HB for many years, it is your responsibility to offer any and all changes in writing and making it clear to all of your constituents. I look forward to you doing what you have been elected to do-being honest and transparent!
Lori Berberet
HB Resident and Concerned Neighbor
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Feb. 20th HB Council Mtg. Agenda Item 24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:01:52 AM
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 6:09:06 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Feb. 20th HB Council Mtg. Agenda Item 24
Re Item 24-143
How ironic that the Council majority has declared February "We Love Our Libraries Month" after their concerted and successful effort to undermine and overrule the expertise of a stellar, professional library staff. What next? Privatizing our public library? I support Item 24 and urge any and all Council members who truly love our libraries to do the same. Cheryl Elliott From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Library transparency
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:02:04 AM
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From: Debra Gala <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:34:34 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Library transparency
Making potential banning and censoring of books should not be done Willy nilly in a free society.
Transparency is essential when decisions about limiting access to books at a public library. I urge all members of hb city council to vote for transparency with the proposed changes and not let a zealous few dictate a potential loss of information and knowledge for teens and other youths based on fear of independent thinking. Thank you, Debra Gala 35 plus year resident, avid reader, parent and educator.
Sent from my iPhone
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Library
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:02:29 AM
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From: Becky Weinthal <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 5:31:37 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: Library
Begin forwarded message:
From: Becky Weinthal <[email protected]>
Date: February 19, 2024 at 5:10:22 PM PST
To: "McKeon, Casey" <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Library
Thank you for responding Casey. I’m glad to hear the remaining portion of Hamilton will be repaved. However my larger point was, I would prefer our city council concern itself with matters of infrastructure, maintenance and modern function, not cherry picking books from the libraries, fighting over flag flying and voter intimidation. Certainly you are aware of the history of banning books.
On Feb 19, 2024, at 3:53 PM, McKeon, Casey
<[email protected]> wrote:
Thank you for your email Becky. The Western half of Hamilton was repaved last year and the remaining portion will be paved this year.
Casey McKeon
City Council Member
City of Huntington Beach
714-536-5553
On Feb 19, 2024, at 2:34 PM, Becky Weinthal
<[email protected]> wrote:
What makes our City Council the arbiters of what books are in our libraries? Self appointed, self righteous,
political pandering? How about fixing the potholes on
Hamilton?
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd:
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:02:53 AM
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 4:13:36 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject:
I’m very concerned about the new library policy of having the library review board to be appointed by the MAGA members and reflecting their arrogance and ignorance. The HB TAX PAYERS must have transparency in issues before the city council!!! Irate tax payer,
Sharon Saka
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Transparency at the library
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:03:04 AM
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From: Julie Hoagland <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:40:10 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Transparency at the library
Please provide clear and transparent data as to the new protocols regarding adult book selections.
Teen and youth book choices are also needing the protocol to be made transparent Julie Ford, DDS
Sent from my iPhone
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Support for 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:03:26 AM
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From: Rayna Hamre <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:25:19 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Support for 24-143
Dear City Council Members-
I am in full support of Council Member Moser's agenda item 24-143.
Please provide transparency on the recent unnecessary changes to our local libraries. Voters need full transparency regarding the logistics and costs for the relocation of books to the adult section, closure of the teen section, volunteer parent review board committee, new policies for library cards, and any other new restrictions on materials and changes to qualified library personnel hiring or other human resources actions.
Thank you,
Rev. Rayna Hamre
49 year resident of Huntington Beach
--
Rev. Rayna Hamre
Affiliated Community Minister UU Church in Anaheim
(949) 791-9144
she, her
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:03:40 AM
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 3:23:55 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item 24-143
I urge you to support Agenda Item 24-143 proposed by Natalie Moser. Providing clear, transparent information regarding library policies is essential to uphold the community’s trust! From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Agenda item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:03:51 AM
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:55:16 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda item 24-143
I support Natalie Moser’s agenda item 24-143 for Transparency. We need transparency in all city government.
A very concerned resident
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Feb 20, 2024 Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:04:02 AM
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From: Linda Moon <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:53:13 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Fwd: Feb 20, 2024 Agenda Item 24-143
I am writing in support of Agenda Item 24-123, Resolution 2023-41, requiring disclosure and transparency with regard to new regulations for access to library materials. Libraries are essential to the support of a well informed and educated community. Any changes to current rules for access to library materials should be made only after full disclosure to the public, with opportunity for public comment and participation.
The minimally announced changes removing the Teen Section of the library, removal of materials from the Children's section and limitation of access to materials for anyone under 18 are misguided and fly in the face of the purpose of libraries to provide community members broad opportunities for education and enrichment. Restrictions for minor's access should be imposed by parents and guardians, based upon their own values, not those of the City Council Majority.
Linda Sapiro Moon
Huntington Beach
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Library
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:04:11 AM
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From: Becky Weinthal <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:34:39 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Library
What makes our City Council the arbiters of what books are in our libraries? Self appointed, self righteous, political pandering? How about fixing the potholes on Hamilton? From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Comment, item #24, 2-20-24 CC mtg.
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:04:23 AM
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From: Dan Jamieson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:25:36 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Comment, item #24, 2-20-24 CC mtg.
Dear HB City Council:
Please support item #24, Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility.
Policies to restrict and ban books in our library are wrongheaded and embarrassing. If the council majority insists on pursuing these policies, they should not be ashamed in detailing exactly how they propose to go about it.
Support item #24. Thank you.
Dan Jamieson
Roxanne McMillen
Huntington Beach
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: HB CC 2/20 Agenda
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:04:33 AM
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From: Cathey Ryder <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 2:21:40 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: HB CC 2/20 Agenda
HB CC 2/20 Agenda
Transparency and Accountability were promised during the 2022 election cycle by those who were elected to the Huntington Beach City Council. Agenda Item 24 asks for transparency and accountability. I expect there to be an unanimous vote for this agenda item.
If not, then we know that the council majority has no intention to be transparent or wants to be held accountable.
Vote Yes on Agenda Item 24.
CJ Ryder
HB Homeowner and Voter
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Resolution 2023-41
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 6:04:49 AM
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From: Donna Ryburn <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 1:36:50 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Resolution 2023-41
Dear city council,
I have been very disappointed with the direction in which you are taking our wonderful city.
I’m writing to support resolution 2023-41.
Sincerely,
Donna Ryburn
9842 La Cresta
Huntington Beach
From: Tim Channel
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Please PASS Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 7:16:02 AM
20 Feb 2024
Huntington Beach Council Members,
I am a 35 year resident and homeowner in Huntington Beach. I urge the council to PASS item 24-143 “Item Submitted by Council Member Moser - Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility”.
This is a no brainer. We must have transparency in the implementation of resolution 2023-41. I vehemently opposed 2023-41 but now that it has been passed and is beginning to be implemented, the citizens of Huntington Beach deserve to know the details of the aspects of the resolution specified in the proposal.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Sincerely,
Timothy Channel
Huntington Beach
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 7:41:53 AM
City Council
My name is Faith Vogel, a longtime resident of Huntington Beach. I served on the Library Board and the Community and Library Services from 2007 to 2023. If there is one thing, I learned in my years of service is that the citizens of Huntington Beach love and support their library.
I am writing in support of Agenda Item 24-143.to be presented at the February 20, 2024, meeting. This action will provide the clarity needed to implement Resolution 2023-41.
The process of establishing a citizen’s children’s book review board selecting children’s books needs to be transparent and provide ongoing information to the parents and citizens of Huntington Beach.
In view of the major impact on library users proposed by the resolution it is necessary for the City Council to let this agenda item pass.
Thank you, for your consideration.
From: Elizabeth SanFilippo
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Item 24-143 Support
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:02:44 AM
As long term residents who use and appreciate our library, we support the request for a report on the implementation of last year's item regarding the library. There needs to be a report with clarity and transparency regarding the criteria to be used as well as a list of the books impacted.
Thank you for consideration.
Elizabeth San Filippo
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Library Concerns
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:06:23 AM
From: Elliot Skolnick <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 19, 2024 6:46 PM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Library Concerns
Dear City Council:
Something is not right in Surf City! Changes are happening in our fine city, but it seems only a few people know what those changes are.
Come clean, be transparent and share all information. You have not done this and that is reflected in the chaos.
Bring honesty and calm to our city and library and do it now.
Elliot Skolnick
Concerned Citizen
From: buzz mccord
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Moser Transparency Initiative
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:22:54 AM
In every endeavor, from parenting to international business to medical device engineering, I have never witnessed an occasion when transparent sharing of detailed information about a team project was not essential.
In part, transparency starts with the oldest business wisdom: “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” The dramatic disruption of our very successful library surely is guided by a detailed plan. What is the written plan?
The currently in-process re-location of books surely has written specifications. What are they?
The Council decided to create a 21 person committee to review acquisitions. That size group surely needs written, detailed, specific guidelines based on professional criteria.
What are the new criteria? Who are these people?
Councilperson Moser has provided a detailed framework on which Council could build transparent public reporting. That 20 February memo addresses all the Council-created issues that our heretofore highly popular, efficient, and economical library faces. I urge the Huntington Beach City Council to vote to implement the means suggested.
For sake of simple good business practice and public transparency, this needs to happen, not in two months, but immediately.
Buzz McCord
Huntington Beach
From: Cooper Carrasco
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Support item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:29:45 AM
Hello,
This agenda item, related to resolution 2023-41, is sorely needed by many concerned community members. We want more transparency. I urge all council members to vote yes.
Show us that you respect the community enough to be open about what’s happening to our libraries behind the scenes.
Thank you,
Cooper Carrasco
From: Dina Chavez
To: [email protected]
Subject: Support 24-143 Request for Transparency
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:31:45 AM
Thank you, Councilmember Natalie Moser, for bringing forth agenda item 24-143 - Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility.
I am deeply concerned about the lack of transparency regarding the implementation of Resolution 2023-41. As citizens, we should have easy access to information about city policies and decisions. I urge the council to provide transparency by documenting all decisions and policies regarding the implementation of Resolution 2023-41 and making those documents readily available to the public.
Dina Chavez
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: City Council Meeting 2-20-2024
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:33:00 AM
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing today to express my concern and confusion over the lack of transparency regarding 1) the new library policies regarding library material accessibility (Resolution 2023-41) and 2) the apparent violation if the city flag policy on Feb. 19, 2024.
Regarding the new policy restricting access to children's' and teen library materials (Resolution 2023-41), I don't understand who is deciding which books to remove from the children's reading area and what they are basing their decisions on.
My understanding is that a citizen's committee composed 21 Huntington Beach residents would be reviewing and deciding on which children's books should be removed to the adult section of the library. The committee members would be appointed by the seven city council members--three per council member. Since then I have seen books being removed from the children's section apparently without any review at all. The actual books being removed include books on potty training, Downs syndrome, and other materials that aren't the least bit objectionable. Furthermore, I haven't seen any mention of the citizen's library committee being formed or that it exists at all. WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON AT THE LIBRARY? Regarding the Flag Ordinance...On Feb 19, 2024 an event was held on the city beach featuring two STOL aircraft that landed on the beach. City council members, the chief of police, and event organizers then held a press conference. At this conference the U.S. and Australian flags were flown, see photo below. The display of the Australian flag was in direct violation of the Huntington Beach Flag Policy. My questions are 1) who decided to display the Australian and 2) what penalties were imposed for violating the flag policy. No one is above the law.
I look forward to your response.
Mary Kyle
Huntington Beach, CA
From: Steven C Shepherd Architect
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Support for Agenda Item #24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:33:45 AM
Dear HB City Council -
I am writing to express my strong support for Agenda Item #24 (Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility).
The simple fact that Resolution 2023-41 was approved without the mandatory transparency and detailed reporting requested by Agenda Item #24 speaks volumes to the folly of this ill-conceived and needless resolution and the utter incompetence of the elected officials who pushed through its original passage.
Steve Shepherd
Huntington Beach 92646
From: nora pedersen
To: [email protected]; CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) Subject: Agenda Item 24
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:37:57 AM
I am a thirty-seven year Huntington Beach homeowner. I vote.
I support Agenda Item 24.
I’ve just learned that the foolish four members of the city council have shut down the teen section of our library. Gone are the bean bags and specially curated teen books. The new policy for library cards requires their mommy’s and daddy’s permission to check out books of their choice. Young adults will have a choice of sitting in the cute pirate boat with little kids in the children’s section or sitting at desks in the adult section. I think they will choose neither and will be driven from the library. The joy of reading and power to investigate new ideas will be lost to them.
Secondly, do parents of small children want teens to sit with their kids in the pirate boat? I say not!
Our teens represent the future of our city. We need to culture divergent forward thinkers. To grow effective participants in society, exposure, discussion, and contemplation of ideas are paramount. Public libraries and freedom to read are sacred for this very reason.
The council majority is stifling the growth of youth in favor of lock step narrow mindedness.
After asking for nearly a year, I still haven’t received a list of books and materials to be removed or recategorized in our library. Is there a rhyme or reason for relocations? What are the criteria? What is the background of the folks who serve on the parent review board? Why is this information being withheld from the public?
Nora Pedersen
From: Celeste Rybicki
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Support of agenda item 24 Library Transparency Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:41:46 AM
Hi,
I’m writing to voice my support for and urge you all to pass Councilmember Moser’s request for transparency and detailed reporting of how the city is handling implementation of Resolution 2023-41. This controversial issue has felt convoluted and deceitful from the beginning and I just don’t think any regular citizens have a clear idea of what is actually happening in our beloved library systems. I think this motion is well worth the time and effort.
Thank you,
Celeste
From: Penny Haugen
To: [email protected]
Cc: Flossie Horgan
Subject: Library books removal
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:45:37 AM
We believe that removal of library books from the public library should not be at the discretion of a few hand chosen people. The criteria for removing books from the public library’s collection should meet the needs and will or approval of the entire community. We live in a democracy with a two party system. A few hand chosen people do not represent the public.
Respectfully,
Penny and Craig Haugen
Sent from my iPhone
From: Paula Schaefer
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF); [email protected] Subject: Resolution 24-143 re Library Material Accessibility Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:49:05 AM
Mayor and Council Members:
It is urgent that you approve this Resolution.
The confusion in the accessibility and location of library materials as a result of the previous actions regarding the "sexual content" of library materials must be rectified as soon as possible. It is unfortunate that this is even necessary and is solely as a result of the prior actions that were taken without any serious plan for the implementation of that ill-advised plan to "relocate" library materials.
I am in full support of Council Member Natalie Moser's detailed and thorough memorandum regarding these materials.
Paula A. Schaefer
HB Resident and HBPL patron
From: Joclyn Rabbitt-Sire
To: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item 24 (24-143)
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:52:27 AM
Dear Mayor Van der Mark and Council Members,
I am writing in support of agenda item 24 (24 - 143), Council Member Moser's request for transparency in the implementation of the new library policy. Several unwelcome changes to our libraries have already sprung up unannounced since the implementation of Resolution 2023-41 began. The Huntington Beach Library system has a reputation in California as an exemplary system of management and service to the community. I fear that our libraries will suffer in their ability to live up to that reputation, and deliver the excellent service all Huntington Beach residents and visitors expect and deserve. If this resolution leads to changes in library policy and operation, we as residents should at least receive access to full disclosure on operational changes to library function BEFORE they happen.
I'm pleased that Councilwoman Moser has put forth a request for full transparency in the workings of this resolution. It appears that none of the structures needed to fairly and ethically carry out this resolution are in place. The public needs to understand exactly what you intend to do to our libraries and how it will affect our community.
I support all areas of Councilwoman Moser's request. I am disheartened that Resolution 2023- 41 ever passed, because our library system hardly needed fixing in the first place. But since it did pass on such a slim majority, it is time that you step forward and explain what your true intentions are and how it will complicate the lives of Huntington Beach citizens.
Sincerely,
Joclyn Rabbitt-Sire
Resident
From: Michael Bledsoe
To: [email protected]
Subject: Library Restrictions
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:59:20 AM
Sorry for the late response.
I oppose the entire slate of restrictions that have been proposed and executed on Library materials for youth. If there was proof that kids were viewing the materials and acting in harmful ways as a result, I would feel differently. While I admit that the account of a certain sex act including "proper technique" was a bit surprising, the great majority of materials don't nearly reach that level. When we were young we went to the library to see if we could find some spicy material we heard was contained therein. It wasn't sexy but I know I found some books that WERE helpful to me to understand how intimate relations are supposed to work.
But they didn't prompt me to go out and try them. I don't think the current crop of kids, who barely date, are going to be set loose in some bacchanalian reverie because of library books.
Online sources are MUCH more likely to do that.
Sorry to be so general in my references but this issue smacks way too much of a national agenda about what some are afraid is happening in our schools. I encourage all who have these concerns to visit schools, without entourages or official title, and see for yourselves.
And remember Footloose from the 80's? These types of restrictions encourage much more wanton behavior that they stop. It's cliche to say that the police chief's son is often arrested for petty crimes and the ministers' daughter sleeps around but, in my experience those things are much more likely to happen.
So, if you are really thinking of the children, do so without an agenda beforehand. (ESPECIALLY if it's a MAGA one) and protect our kids in ways that really protects them and helps them grow.
~Sincerely,
Michael Bledsoe
P.S. Like most of us who oppose these current council actions, I have raised children in this district (3) and who have used the library. WE have seen how kids really use the library.
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Agenda Item 24-143
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 9:02:10 AM
From: Suzanne Hart <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:37 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Agenda Item 24-143
We are writing to you in support of Natalie Moser's Transparency Resolution 24-143. We feel reasonably sure that you are all in favor of transparency and detailed, clear reporting in city governance! Who wouldn't be? Please consider this to be a crucial component while contemplating your decision tonight.
Thank you,
Chris and Suzanne Hart
From: Levin, Shannon
To: [email protected]
Subject: FW: Library
Date: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 9:02:26 AM
From: Beth Fournier <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 8:37 AM
To: CITY COUNCIL (INCL. CMO STAFF) <[email protected]> Subject: Library
Dear City Council Members,
As a mother of 2 young children I am outraged and grieved to live in community where some members of its governing body feels it is the city's right to generate and implement Resolution 2023-41.
This Resolution hijacks the responsibility and privilege that parents have to monitor their children's reading, leaving decisions regarding the appropriateness of books to complete strangers. It is not the City Council's responsibility.
I highly support Council Member Natalie Moser's Request for Transparency and Detailed Reporting on the Implementation of Resolution 2023-41 Regarding Library Material Accessibility, and urge you to prepare and present a comprehensive report as requested.
It concerns me greatly that the Council initiated the process of removing and reorganizing books without a thorough review of the impact this Resolution will have on our community. Resolution 2023-41 should never have been passed in the first place.
Signed,
Elizabeth Fournier