"We aren’t removing the Bible, not removing LGBTQ+ literature, not removing anything about racism or history. Not removing anything. The books live all in here together, like we should be doing in the world."
Dang. Sometimes no further comment is necessary. Kudos for common sense and moxie!
I read your piece, and the story of the Pearland librarians really resonated with me. Their decision to trust people’s ability to choose for themselves—without resorting to censorship—is a quiet, yet powerful act. It's not about controlling what people read, but creating space for everyone to decide what’s right for them. The librarian’s words, “The books live all in here together,” really stand out. They remind me of how important it is to allow diverse voices and perspectives to coexist freely, without the need for exclusion or restriction.
What also stands out to me is the way you framed the bigger issue here. It’s not just about books or libraries—it’s about trust in people to make their own decisions. This story highlights the courage in standing firm against pressures to conform, choosing instead to maintain an open space for everyone. It feels like a small act of defiance, but one that makes all the difference. In a time when so much is dictated by fear or control, your words highlight the importance of trust in community and individual choice.
I also appreciate how much this issue clearly matters to you. Your attention to these quieter moments of resistance made me reflect on how often small, personal acts of courage can go unnoticed. Yet, it’s these very moments that have the power to shift things over time. I’m grateful for the perspective you bring in showing the value of these individual stands for what’s right.
It gives me joy! I’m so glad our library boasts a Banned Book shelves so kids learn to choose.(The banned book shelf does Not include books dangerous or inappropriate for teens)
"We aren’t removing the Bible, not removing LGBTQ+ literature, not removing anything about racism or history. Not removing anything. The books live all in here together, like we should be doing in the world." These words from the librarians brought tears to my eyes!
I'm a retired teacher of 32 years in public elementary schools, and have written a book (due out from The New Press in early 2026) about teaching during the age of culture wars. I interviewed dozens of teachers and librarians, and heard some similar stories from librarians who REFUSE to withhold information from students. It's stories like this one from the Brazoria County librarians that give me hope during these surreal times. THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS STORY!!!
Sue, thank you for telling me about your years of teaching and love for librarians. Congrats on your upcoming book pub! I’m also a retired teacher - 26/years for me, high school science. Libraries and librarians are invaluable, precious gifts in our society, especially now. I’ll look for your book. I am about to self publish one of my own, a novel.
If I lived in Texas, which I would never do, I would be tempted to set up a Free Library of Banned Books in my front yard. Three cheers for the Pearland librarians!
Three cheers for these librarians!!! Every act of resistance matters, and I love that line, "The books all live in her together like we should be doing in the world."
Bravery is now part of the job description. Imagine having a personality that would call you to the profession and having to find the strength of spine to defend it - in public. You have to love librarians.
Great story. Librarians are amazing! Some have complied but many have found ways to resist. This shows others how.
Yes, librarians are so incredible! Thanks for reading and for commenting, Annette.
"We aren’t removing the Bible, not removing LGBTQ+ literature, not removing anything about racism or history. Not removing anything. The books live all in here together, like we should be doing in the world."
Dang. Sometimes no further comment is necessary. Kudos for common sense and moxie!
For sure, Ninurta!
Love this! Wish there were more guts where I live in Virginia.
Hi,Sharon! Thanks for commenting. Who knows?Maybe the defiance will spread to Virginia. Fingers crossed. :)
Bravo Brazoria County! Here in Ohio some books were temporarily banned based solely on their title, or the authors name.
Being a native Ohioan, that makes me sad, and even sadder that I’m not surprised, Mark.
Julie,
I read your piece, and the story of the Pearland librarians really resonated with me. Their decision to trust people’s ability to choose for themselves—without resorting to censorship—is a quiet, yet powerful act. It's not about controlling what people read, but creating space for everyone to decide what’s right for them. The librarian’s words, “The books live all in here together,” really stand out. They remind me of how important it is to allow diverse voices and perspectives to coexist freely, without the need for exclusion or restriction.
What also stands out to me is the way you framed the bigger issue here. It’s not just about books or libraries—it’s about trust in people to make their own decisions. This story highlights the courage in standing firm against pressures to conform, choosing instead to maintain an open space for everyone. It feels like a small act of defiance, but one that makes all the difference. In a time when so much is dictated by fear or control, your words highlight the importance of trust in community and individual choice.
I also appreciate how much this issue clearly matters to you. Your attention to these quieter moments of resistance made me reflect on how often small, personal acts of courage can go unnoticed. Yet, it’s these very moments that have the power to shift things over time. I’m grateful for the perspective you bring in showing the value of these individual stands for what’s right.
Thank you for sharing this.
Jay
It gives me joy! I’m so glad our library boasts a Banned Book shelves so kids learn to choose.(The banned book shelf does Not include books dangerous or inappropriate for teens)
I’m glad, too!
Thanks good to know I lived in college station Texas for four years !!np comment
Wow! Didn’t know that!
"We aren’t removing the Bible, not removing LGBTQ+ literature, not removing anything about racism or history. Not removing anything. The books live all in here together, like we should be doing in the world." These words from the librarians brought tears to my eyes!
I'm a retired teacher of 32 years in public elementary schools, and have written a book (due out from The New Press in early 2026) about teaching during the age of culture wars. I interviewed dozens of teachers and librarians, and heard some similar stories from librarians who REFUSE to withhold information from students. It's stories like this one from the Brazoria County librarians that give me hope during these surreal times. THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS STORY!!!
Sue, thank you for telling me about your years of teaching and love for librarians. Congrats on your upcoming book pub! I’m also a retired teacher - 26/years for me, high school science. Libraries and librarians are invaluable, precious gifts in our society, especially now. I’ll look for your book. I am about to self publish one of my own, a novel.
Subscribed, Sue!
High school science -- props to you! Congratulations on your book-to-be!
Thank you!
If I lived in Texas, which I would never do, I would be tempted to set up a Free Library of Banned Books in my front yard. Three cheers for the Pearland librarians!
My niece is a teacher in this system. Not surprised but real proud.
Thanks for letting me know, Elizabeth! Having pride over her affiliation with such a forward-thinking organization is worth celebrating!
Three cheers for these librarians!!! Every act of resistance matters, and I love that line, "The books all live in her together like we should be doing in the world."
Me, too!
Bravery is now part of the job description. Imagine having a personality that would call you to the profession and having to find the strength of spine to defend it - in public. You have to love librarians.
Never a dull moment, and never a time to relax and think one’s job is accepted by everyone. Hard.
Surprising, right?