Taxes shouldn’t fund that

I am a lifelong resident of Spokane, and have enjoyed the public libraries in our city. As a former preschool teacher, I always encouraged the parents to take their children to the library and read to them often. The story hour was another fun way to create a love for reading in their kids. I was shocked and confused when I read the Spokesman’s article on June 1, “Library Hosting Drag Queen Event.” The event idea is from a New York-based nonprofit, “Drag Queen Story Hour.”

I wondered why our library would agree to sponsor this, especially for children? Karis O’Malley, Spokane Public Library deputy director, explained the reason as wanting to “lean into the controversy … give the community opportunity to have a conversation, maybe experience a bit of growth around the topic.” Many library patrons who like to bring children for the story hour would object to having drag queen storytellers. It is inappropriate for young children, especially when we need police and security personnel for safety concerns – is this what we want for our public library?

I voted to support the library for the last levy. I was excited to hear about some of the new ideas to broaden the ways the library could serve the community. I don’t think our taxes should be used for a program like this – maybe in New York, but not in our fine city! If you are as concerned as I am, call the library and voice your concerns!

Grace Zentz

Spokane