At the Oct. 1 School Committee meeting, an updated policy regarding the handling of library book removal was presented, following a recent controversy over the withdrawal of a book from school shelves.
In January, “Woke: A Young Poet’s Call to Justice,” a collection of poems by women of color, was briefly removed from North Attleborough schools after a parent’s complaint. The decision to remove the book sparked outrage from local officials and residents, including state Rep. Adam Scanlon. Following public backlash, Superintendent Dr. John Antonucci quickly reversed the decision and restored the book, acknowledging the need for a clearer and more inclusive process for reviewing library materials.
In response, the committee has now implemented a revised process. Moving forward, the Library Book Reconsideration Committee’s decisions—whether to remove or relocate a book—must pass by a two-thirds majority vote.
Additionally, the updated process empowers parents and guardians to challenge the reconsideration committee’s decisions. Should they disagree with a decision to remove or move a book, they can file an appeal. This appeal, along with a report from the superintendent and evidence from both parties, will then be presented to the School Committee for a final review. The School Committee will determine the outcome of the appeal through a majority vote.
This process is aimed at ensuring greater transparency and fairness in the decision-making process regarding library materials. It also provides parents and guardians with a clear path to voice their concerns if they feel a book is being unfairly targeted or removed.
This change follows recent discussions about the importance of maintaining a diverse and inclusive library while balancing the concerns of parents regarding age-appropriate materials for students.
