Dear Lafayette Public Library, from a Concerned Mom

Lafayette Public Library

I love libraries. I think their role and purpose in our communities cannot be overstated. Access to information is a right and privilege that we never think twice about, and our local libraries are catalysts for increased knowledge on just about every topic.

However, in recent events, library decision-makers have decided that book displays surrounding topics like Pride Month, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Native American history, and Cajun heritage are no longer allowed.

As a mother, frankly, I am appalled. The library’s published mission statement reads: 

The mission of Lafayette Public Library is to enhance the quality of life of our community by providing free and equal access to high-quality, cost-effective library services that meet the needs and expectations of our diverse community for information, life-long learning, recreation, and cultural enrichment.

Tell me…

  • Where in the mission statement does it read that the library will serve as the moral compass for how our community learns?
  • Did anyone else see a line about the need to censor historical events in order to avoid controversial conversation?
  • Has the library decided that parents are incapable of deciding what content is appropriate for their children?

Sure, the library is keeping these books on the shelves. But if we want progress for our marginalized communities, books about them should be easily accessible. 

As a woman, I am offended that Women’s History Month is considered controversial when women make up 83% of our country’s librarians. 

As a citizen of Lafayette, I am offended that the heritage of the Cajun culture would not be put on display as a symbol of pride for our tradition and history.

As a mother, I am offended that the library feels they should replace me as the decision-maker on what content is appropriate for myself or my child to take in.

As a taxpayer, I am offended at the thought that equal access means removing things from the spotlight rather than bringing more things into the spotlight. 

Dear library, I hope you are able to listen to your community’s plea. I hope that when I bring my children into your doors, their thirst for knowledge is fulfilled and not snuffed out. I hope that you come to realize that tough conversations are not bad, but a catalyst for learning and empathy.

Please, library, do better.

Jessica Hauerwas
Jessica is a nonprofit leader who loves bopping around Lafayette for the best burgers or bands in town. She is the Executive Director of Downtown Lafayette Unlimited where she runs the day-to-day nonprofit. She and her husband Chris have three littles at home (Jane, Clark, and Louise) where there is lots of giggling and always a cup of coffee brewing. Jessica is passionate about community-building and empowering working mothers. Jessica also volunteers for various organizations, is a member of the Lafayette Re-Entry Coalition, a graduate of Leadership Lafayette, and a survivor of being a mother of three under 4.