LIVINGSTON – The Livingston Parish Library Control Board has voted that the book “I’m Not a Girl: A Transgender Story,” by Maddox Lyons and Jessica Verdi, does not meet the criteria to restrict access for minors across library branches in Livingston Parish.
The vote on the transgender book came down to 5-3 at the July 16, 2024 Livingston Parish Library Control Board meeting.
The board evaluated whether the book contains sexually explicit material as defined by Louisiana statutes requiring parental consent at checkout. The book chronicles the journey of a 12-year-old, who was born as a girl but identifies as a boy.
Board member Abby Crosby noted that complaints regarding LGBTQ+ books often arise from patrons who fill out challenge forms. “It’s not us (the board) going out and picking the books,” she said, emphasizing the complaints come directly from community members.
Prior to discussing the book, the board voted to create a “parents shelf” in libraries, aimed at relocating certain children’s books to help parents identify sensitive content. Some board members suggested it could be a place for books like “I’m Not a Girl” without deeming them in violation of state restrictions.
Livingston Parish librarian Amanda Jones expressed her support for the parenting shelf, provided it remains in the children’s section. She also argued against classifying the proposed book as containing sexual content.
“This book isn’t for everyone, but no one is forcing anyone to read it. It’s about gender,” Jones stated. “There is no sex. There is no mutilation. There is no way anyone can construe this as pornography.”
Additionally, the library board tabled a vote regarding a proposed $1 raise for library staff.
As discussions continue, the board said they remain focused on balancing community concerns with access to diverse literature.
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One Response
It’s impossible for a girl to be a boy. “Trans” is a mental illness.