Growing debate over how public libraries handle controversial or sensitive materials

The Amarillo Library Advisory Board has decided to retain two challenged books, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison and The Every Body Book by Rachel E. Simon, while reclassifying Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe from the young adult section to the adult section. The decision came after a formal review process initiated by Misty Collier, a mayoral candidate who filed a reconsideration form expressing concerns over the content of the three titles.

The issue sparked passionate responses from community members during a packed public meeting held Tuesday in the Amarillo City Council Chambers. While the City Council did not take formal action, the conversation underscored a growing debate over how public libraries handle controversial or sensitive materials—especially those addressing race, gender identity, and sexuality.

Amarillo Public Library Director Amanda Barrera walked attendees through the reconsideration process, which she described as thorough and rarely escalated to this level.

“Once a citizen submits a reconsideration form, we form a committee of library staff who review the material in full,” Barrera explained. “They submit reports to me, and I personally read or review the items as well. I then compare my findings with those of the committee and make a decision, which I share with the person who initiated the request.”

If the requester disagrees with the decision, they can appeal to the Library Advisory Board, which must also review the materials before voting. According to Barrera, this multi-step process ensures that decisions are thoughtful and well-informed.

In her 24 years with the library system, Barrera said she has rarely seen such a challenge escalate to the board level.

Collier, who is running for mayor, voiced strong concerns over the content of The Every Body Book, which she said includes “sexual instructions” inappropriate for children ages five to ten. She supported the reclassification of Gender Queer to the adult section but was disappointed the other titles remained accessible to younger audiences.

“There are 850 titles that the Texas legislature is reviewing for possible removal,” Collier said. “I think all of them should at least be moved to the adult section.”

She also proposed creating a separate, restricted room for books only accessible to those 18 and older—an idea Barrera said would require a significant capital investment beyond the library's current budget and authority.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a community divided. Some praised the library’s decision, emphasizing intellectual freedom and the importance of diverse representation in literature.

Madison Boyle, a local resident, warned that removing or restricting books could set a troubling precedent.

“If we start banning books now, where does it end?” she asked. “Books are meant to expose us to different experiences and perspectives—not just the ones we’re comfortable with.”

Others echoed concerns about the influence of legislation and how closely the library’s policies should align with state recommendations.

Although no action was taken Tuesday night, Mayor Stanley instructed city staff to review current guidelines and explore potential updates. He also proposed expanding the Library Advisory Board from seven to nine members to better represent the community. Councilmember Les Simpson encouraged increased parental involvement in library material oversight.

City staff indicated they would wait for the conclusion of the current legislative session before finalizing any policy changes, ensuring alignment with new state laws, if any are passed.

For now, the books remain largely available, with Gender Queer being the only title moved. The broader discussion around book access, community standards, and children’s exposure to sensitive topics is far from over in Amarillo.