Local News : Gay-lesbian titles donated to Wasilla Library - Frontiersman

Gay-lesbian titles donated to Wasilla Library

By Michael Rovito
Frontiersman
Published on Monday, September 22, 2008 11:31 PM AKDT

WASILLA — Responding to news reports about then-Wasilla Mayor Sarah Palin asking a librarian how she would feel about banning books, a San Francisco man has donated two children’s books dealing with homosexuality to the Wasilla Library.

Mike Petrelis, a 49-year-old who files Freedom of Information requests for a living, said he was aghast to read reports of Palin’s 1996 inquiry about banning certain books at Wasilla’s library.

The news — old news in the Mat-Su Valley, but new in the Lower 48 — prompted Petrelis to send to Wasilla “Heather Has Two Mommies” and “Daddy’s Roommate,” both children’s books that explain gay lifestyle.

“I said, ‘I’m going to send copies of both books just to make sure they’re on the shelves,’” Petrelis said.

The story of Palin’s book removal question caught national attention after reporters arrived in town to probe Palin following Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain’s surprise Aug. 29 announcement. In the ensuing barrage of media attention on Wasilla, the inquiry as to the librarian’s feelings on pulling some books became one of the many old Palin stories that suddenly became new again when it reached the Lower 48.

There is no evidence that Palin ever banned any books from the library, although many Outside media outlets have incorrectly reported to the contrary. One book with which Palin reportedly had a problem was  “Pastor, I am Gay,” by Howard Bess, a Valley resident and now-retired minister of the Church of the Covenant in Palmer.

Still, to Petrelis, Palin’s asking about removing books from the shelves was an attempt at censorship.

Whether “Heather Has Two Mommies” or “Daddy’s Roommate” will make it onto the shelves of the Wasilla Public Library is unclear.

Library Director KJ Martin-Albright said she has received the books but, like any donation, they have to go through a process that determines what to do with them.

There are two options for donations, she said. Either the library puts the book on the shelves or gives it to Friends of the Library to be sold. Martin-Albright said factors such as the author’s reputation, importance of the subject matter to the library’s collection, space availability in the library and a litany of other factors are used to determine the fate of donated materials.

As of Monday, there is no timeline for when a decision on the books Petrelis sent will be made, and Martin-Albright stressed every donated book goes through the same process.

“It’s the only way to be fair,” she said.

Petrelis’ idea to send the books seems to be well received in Alaska’s gay community. Bent Alaska, a blog chronicling gay news and events in the state, praises the donation on its Web site.

Tim Stallard, owner of Out in Alaska, a gay and lesbian guide service, said he thinks Petrelis’s effort is well-placed.

“I think it’s a good statement,” Stallard said. “I think in a free society like ours, openness and education and information are always important.”

Stallard added the timing is right after the Wasilla Public Library was thrust into the spotlight when Palin was named to the Republican ticket.

For Petrelis, his timing is even better because Banned Books Week, the American Library Association’s celebration of the freedom to read, begins Sept. 27. And more books dealing with homosexuality could be donated to Wasilla library soon. On his blog, Petrelis Files, Petrelis said he hopes to donate another gay-themed book, “And Tango Makes Three,” to the library.

Petrelis said while a book like “Heather Has Two Mommies” may not show a lot of circulation, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not being read.

Contact Michael Rovito at michael.rovito@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.

Copyright © 2010 Frontiersman

Comments

82 comment(s)

    actionmatures.sexusblog.com wrote on Jul 26, 2010 12:33 AM:

    " " I don't think those books should be in the library. I agree with what Tammy wrote, there should be more Biblical based stories. Lets all pull together as parents and promote that these books be banned from our public library. " "

    Milla wrote on Oct 9, 2008 4:58 AM:

    " So, libraries should "not sheild anything"? Why then do we have laws SHIELDING children against so many things? Should these laws be abolished (and why)? Why should libraries be treated differently from everything else?! Can anyone give me an adult, well-thought reason? "

    TS wrote on Oct 7, 2008 10:17 AM:

    " Public libraries provide materials to people who can't afford them. The goal is to include all information, not dumb it down to appease the most ignorant. If you don't like a book, don't read it. If you don't want your kid to read a book, discuss that with them. The public library is not a babysitter. Librarians do not look kindly on you dropping your child off at the library then getting mad at the library because your child spent the next two hours perusing the paperback romance section. Finally, in regards to funding books: gay people pay taxes, too. "

    TS wrote on Oct 7, 2008 9:51 AM:

    " PSUdain is not denying that the terms "gay" or "straight" refer to sexual preference- he/she is objecting to the seemingly common belief that any material that includes a gay relationship is some sort of gay-sex manual. A great deal of literature features straight relationships with no discussion of said couples' explicit sexual activities. Literature with gay relationships is no different. Further, if you believe that children's books featuring homosexual relationships discuss gay sex, I suggest you flip through one the next time you are at the library; you might be surprised how it reads just like... a typical children's book. "

    eric wrote on Oct 6, 2008 1:10 PM:

    " PSUdain is far from being honest. Gay and straight have explicit reference to sexual preference. Just as the coined term homophobic has become popular by the same audience to try to silence anyone who disagrees with the 'gay' lifestyle. Forced tolerance is not tolerance but is in fact censorship through denigration. "

    PSUdain wrote on Oct 6, 2008 9:06 AM:

    " It really is tiresome to hear people constantly equate being gay with SEX! SEX! SEX! Being gay doesn't immediately imply a sexual relationship any more than being straight does.

    There are plenty of levels in any relationship that are not sexual and thus are child-appropriate. None of these books features or even alludes to the act of intercourse any more than all the books featuring loving straight couples do.

    If all you see in an LGBT couple is sex, then you might want to think a little more on your definition of what love is. "

    Linda Henning wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM:

    " I appreciate K Js professional response regarding these particular books. That’s the value of MLS degreed librarians and a free public library. These particular books teach understanding and acceptance, explaining that it’s love that makes a family, not the family makeup. The original libraries started by our founding fathers were established to allow anyone to educate themselves with a direct connection to our fight for freedom. If we are constantly defending our freedom then we have to know what that is. Freedom of speech is the hallmark of our libraries and I support our librarians’ decisions regarding its contents. "

    Hello wrote on Oct 2, 2008 10:54 AM:

    " Hey Paul who said anything about being afraid. Lets keep the library for learning. If I want a relationship or sex book I can go buy one. Maybe we aren't afraid you are just paranoid. "fascism" that's just funny. "

    Paul wrote on Oct 2, 2008 5:59 AM:

    " Wow. I've heard about vitrioloc ignorance like this, but I've scarcely seen it in real life. Well, here it is.

    Book banning is the first step toward fascism. People who are afraid of information are mostly afriad their "own" truths won't withstand scrutiny. "

    Me wrote on Oct 1, 2008 7:38 PM:

    " My children use the library every month for field trips since they don't have one in their school. I really don't want my 6yo coming home with those books. I haven't seen any gay couple in our community that think they need to make a statement by making out in the middle of Carrs. As a parent, it is my right to choose when to teach my children about these things, not have them thrust upon them. They should be put in the parenting section so it's the parents choice not the childs. "

    Ken Horne wrote on Sep 30, 2008 9:19 PM:

    " Jim from Boston;
    North Korean books are easily recognised. As you flick thru the pages.If its a load of gibberish all about the 'great leader' or 'dear leader' and appears to be the greatest load of codswallop you have ever tried to read,then its from La-la land.

    One friend of mine complained to the North Koreans was promtly sent twice as many books as before. But he had the last laugh, he used the lot for landfill under the concrete slab that formed his new house. 'We have a library downstairs but we don't use it' he says. "

    Jim from Boston wrote on Sep 30, 2008 11:30 AM:

    " Ken, have you alerted homeland security concerning the North Korean book shipments?

    What ports are they using to land the cargo and how do I recognize a book whose origin is North Korean? "

    MaxKatt from NY wrote on Sep 30, 2008 10:31 AM:

    " OMG! I almost had a heart attack. I went to Wasilla's home page (www.cityofwasilla.com)and I kid you not, a picture of the Library came up with text "Wasilla Public Library Adult Collection." To funny! Various pics appear each time you log in...Dorothy Museum, Multi-Use Sports Complex, etc. For me to get the Adult book pic, though, how funny. I wonder how many of the right wingers will have a REAL heart attack thinking all the donated gay books have exploded into a giant ADULT section. "

    MaxKatt from NY wrote on Sep 30, 2008 9:00 AM:

    " Re-visiting this thread. Noted this " $0.25 movies at the adult bookstore shop." If Wasilla with it's pop of 9k really has such an establishment I'm really impressed. Booths no less!

    Back to point...don't worry about the books in the library. Kids don't read anymore. They're too busy up in their rooms looking at all the great pornograpy the internet while you sit downstairs watching your American Idol (or is that out now that you've learned about Clay?) "

    eric wrote on Sep 30, 2008 8:31 AM:

    " It is amazing that those who claim abhorence of censorship would do so in a heartbeat to silence individuals of faith. Hypocrisy knows no bounds. One can only wonder how someone who claims tolerance such as the homosexual crowd yet show by word and deed that they are obsessed not with tolerance but their own petty needs for self fulfillment. "

    Ken Horne wrote on Sep 29, 2008 9:41 PM:

    " If I ran a library in a cold state such as Alaska I would welcome all mannner of books on any subject,especially of the sort mentioned.During the winter time I would have fuel for my stove or fire place and enjoy seeing them go up in flames, at the same time saving a bundle of money.
    Libraries all over the world have books by the truck load sent from North Korea, who expect them on the shelves of course. Instead they are all quietly pulped or dumped without a word to anyone. Problem solved without heartbreak to the sensitive ones. "

    MH wrote on Sep 29, 2008 4:44 PM:

    " Whoa! I haven't even come close to reading all the comments, but I have to clarify one thing. I work in a library, and patrons donate books to us all the time. They don't always go on our shelves. If we put everything on our shelves that was donated to us, we would have a massive scientology collection, for example. The library belongs to the entire community, not just those who donate books to us (especially if the person donating them is not a part of the local community) "

    Tammy wrote on Sep 29, 2008 3:49 PM:

    " wow, all these comments, yes, I was bored and now my eyes are tired! So many good points brought forward. I am not judging - who am I to do that? I have dontated books to the library, some Bible based, some family based, some educational with science or history. Clean with a lesson to be learned. Yes, parents should be aware of what their children are reading, parents should promote healthy reading, parents should teach their children about relationships and parents should teach their children to love as Christ loves. Parents communicate w/your children - teach them. "

    Keeping the peace wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:32 AM:

    " How about we close down the public library and people can have their own personal libraries in their own home. It seems to me that this debate is now between The Bible or Gay books. That is sad. I dont think anyone should be confused over which of those books are more impotant. If you are confused let me help you Out......The Bible. "

    Luke wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:25 AM:

    " _Fahrenheit 451_ by Ray Bradbury 1953 is a great read regarding government sponsored censorship. Freedom of ideas. Freedom of thought. Freedom of lifestyle. Aren't these American ideals? Aren't these ideals Americans are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan for? Aren't these ideals that bring Americans to Alaska? Our elected officials should govern to protect our rights as Americans, not sell us out to religious ideologies and try to shape our thoughts by controlling information. This story reminds me more communist China and the USSR, not an American city. "

    Who wrote on Sep 29, 2008 6:57 AM:

    " To Brianne:
    Who gets to set the terms of the peace and security in the community? If gangs, cultists, or supremists are the majority do they? Looks like the peace and security has been disrupted here lately. Why should I have to accept the ways of others that I feel are not right in my community? I sure would'nt want their weird parades here. There are communities that they are the majority. Stop trying to blame Jesus. If we all heeded His words, we wouldn't have this problem. But we don't. "

    Brianne wrote on Sep 28, 2008 9:17 AM:

    " Frankly these books Are NOT TRASH. Nor do they promote some scary gay agenda. The only Gay Agenda that is now or has ever been is the Agenda of being able to live in peace and security that comes with simple equality with any other American. Gay people, are all around us, living good decent lives, helping our community and taking care to raise our collective children to be good citizens.
    The number of people who claim to follow Jesus' ways, but don't makes me sad. "

    J. Farrell wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:03 AM:

    " Yes, Tammy, childreen needore Bible-based stories in the library. How about a special shelf for tales of crucifixion, smashing the skulls of children and praying that our enemies are tormented by a vengeful God. "

    Alaska Granny wrote on Sep 26, 2008 3:35 AM:

    " I can not beleive the way the media has twisted this. Well, yes I can. Palin has never mentioned anything about banning any book from any Library. All she ever did was to ask how the librarian would feel about it if someone ever asked her to do it. Palin can't ban any book. No one can. It is unconstitutional. The morons of the media need to get their unopinionated brains back. The sensationalism is getting boring. Especially when they refuse to tell the truth. What we need from our media is just the facts, not their opinions. "

    To peaches herb and others wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:08 PM:

    " We enjoy teaching our kids to read. But your missing the point. If we wanted to teach them filth we would take them to the $0.25 movies at the adult bookstore shop. That junk is out there. If they're interested they will find it. We don't need you to find it for them. "

    peaches wrote on Sep 25, 2008 9:11 PM:

    " I feel very concerned in the route our nation has taken. We are so concerned about the books that are not in the libraires that we are forgetting what is there; a vast array of wonder! And that array contains literature about every subject there is (if it's a good library mind you) and it does not sheild anything. The whole point to a library is to be able to research and read about the subject of your choice. It is not about whining and complaining when an individual wants to make a contribution. Teach kids to love reading,that's all. "

    Reader in Texas wrote on Sep 25, 2008 3:51 PM:

    " Perhaps when, then Mayor Palin, asked the librarian about banning books, she was asking if the librarian would uphold the Library Bill of Rights and the American Library Association Code of Ethics or bend to political pressure. "

    Milla wrote on Sep 25, 2008 3:36 PM:

    " Libraries never had age-inappropriate books in their children areas, but only in the adult areas. How can parents make a decision when libraries put these kinds of books SPECIFICALLY in areas where MINOR children can get them? Do the test: get the books mentioned in the article; approach a minor child in the street and read them to the child and see what happens to you! I can see Thomas Jefferson agreeing with providing CHILDREN with books on "sexual orientation"! "

    Tim wrote on Sep 25, 2008 2:36 PM:

    " If you don't want to read a certain book, then don't check it out. In America we have the First Amendment to protect freedom of thought and freedom of speech so that we don't become the Soviet Union. Even just asking about removing books is bad enough. Not to mention threating the librarians' job for standing up for freedom of speech. "

    w wrote on Sep 25, 2008 2:23 PM:

    " Libraries exist to provide information for *everyone,* regardless of race, color, creed, sexual orientation. That means presenting both sides of an issue, not instructing anyone on what to believe, and trusting the individual (or parent) to determine what is appropriate to them or not. Think of libraries as neutral ground, where information and ideas are made freely available, and no one is pressured to believe in one thing or another. If you feel something is inappropriate for you or your family, don't read/see it. That is your right. But please don't presume to know what is right for someone else. "

    Milla wrote on Sep 25, 2008 12:07 PM:

    " Most parents don't want to give access to their children of age-inappropriate literature. Since libraries exist because Taxpayers PAY for them, it's just obvious they should reflect society. I don't see what the problem is, especially because it has always been like this before--well, before homosexuals took over the American Library Association decades ago... Then, suddenly, common-sense morphed into "censorship"! "

    Leah wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:40 AM:

    " Why is there such outrage over Alaskan Library content? I mean really, who goes to libraries anymore? Is anyone aware how dreadfully low readership is in America? Why aren't we crying about the garbage that's slowly draining away all our ambition and creativity on the tube? "

    Just me wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:15 AM:

    " AKBoy30 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:13 AM:

    " Tammy, The gentleman mentioned in this article is providing books to the library... Perhaps ... you will make a donation of books to the library yourself..."

    Either your sarcasm isn't quite making it over the internet, or your milquetoast approach to politics is scarily indomitable. Methinks you skirt the point. "

    Abnormailties wrote on Sep 25, 2008 10:13 AM:

    " You said it. This is not the normal behavior of nature. It happens, but we don't have to like it. Just deal with it. "

    To Scared Valley Resident wrote on Sep 25, 2008 8:20 AM:

    " I share your fears - this is a scary world we live in where heterophobic judgemental leftist elites want to indoctrinate our children with propoganda designed to teach their intolerant and bigoted views. They hate anyone who doesn't agree with them and then pass themselves off as the peak of the tolerant and educated segment of our society. If you think that is harsh - attend a gay parade in SanFran where the most benevolent donator is from. Look at the rage in the faces of some of these people, they don't just want acceptance, they want indoctrination. "

    Jim wrote on Sep 25, 2008 5:08 AM:

    " If children reading those books is an issue, I have a truly novel idea. Parents, don't treat the library like your own personal, free-of-charge babysitter. Take the time to stay there and watch your kids and what they are doing or looking at. It is easier than trying to restrict what everyone else has a given right to access. "

    Audreen wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:03 PM:

    " Matthew 7:1-5 - Judging Others

    Jesus is forbidding the judging that is for the purpose of putting down others to exalt one's self.

    He is warning us not to have a bitter, hypercritical, faultfinding spirit. That is a haughty attitude God will not tolerate. "

    Audreen wrote on Sep 24, 2008 10:58 PM:

    " Are you kidding me? Being gay is a choice? So, tell me, is having Downs Syndrome a choice? Is having Autism a choice? Is having spina bifida a choice? Is having multiple sclerosis a choice? Is having muscular dystrophy a choice? Need I go on? NO! These are genetic anomalies that occur in a nature, always have and always will. "

    jp wrote on Sep 24, 2008 6:49 PM:

    " please people , be silent and be ignorant!
    We should take lessons from Iran, and make laws against it! "

    Linguist wrote on Sep 24, 2008 2:21 PM:

    " Please, people. Silence KILLS young gay people. Ignorance KILLS them.

    This isn't about sex. This is about sexual orientation. The two are NOT the same. I knew I was gay long before I knew there was a word for it or that there were others like me and long before I knew anything about sexual activity of any kind. Gay kids need to know they aren't going crazy and that they aren't immoral or sick or hated. And all your rants about keeping information from them just serves to solidify their fears. "

    Jeanne wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:37 PM:

    " Probably we can say get-a-life to anyone writing comments in the middle of the day, you and me!

    I included that citation because Denial-Anyone used the argument that homosexuality did not occur in animals, which of course it does. I was giving him the information needed to read up on that point.

    Silly, I didn't remember that info. I looked it up in the library catalog. Cool, huh? "

    Jeanne wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:23 PM:

    " Hey Mike Petrelis, the Wasilla library already has "Tango". But the Howard Bess book, "Pastor I'm Gay" that was never banned is no longer part of the Wasilla library collection. Maybe you could donate a few copies of that book! "

    Get Real wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:21 PM:

    " Jeanne, why would anyone want to read about animal homosexuality? And why would you remember the specifics on it? Do you really think any body is going to run on out and get it? Can we say get a life? "

    Jeanne wrote on Sep 24, 2008 1:06 PM:

    " Perhaps Denial-anyone would be interested in reading about the reality of animal homosexuality at the Palmer Public Library:

    591.562 BAG 2000
    Biological exuberance : animal homosexuality and natural diversity
    Bagemihl, Bruce.

    1 copy available at Palmer Public Library in Adult Non-Fiction "

    Get Real wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:59 PM:

    " Denial Anyone is absolutely correct. Being gay is a choice. However The subject of this sicko writing sex books for small kids is too much. And we know it is for small kids because what teen ager is going to read "Heather has two mommies" or "Daddy's roomate". And seriously do gay people really need a book to explain their relationship to their own kid.I dont need a book for my kids "mommy and Daddy". "

    Jeanne wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:58 PM:

    " Last time I was reading the bible to my 3 year old son, I found stumbled into David killing 400 of the enemy and bringing their foreskins back to his future father-in-law!

    In comparison, "Daddy's Roommate" is actually pretty bland and boring. Absolutely no foreskins or mass killing. It's a kids picture book.

    Most parents have very strong control over what their picture-book reading children get to read. So fear not. I am sure that parents who object to the idea of Daddy having a Roommate are able to convey their values to their children. "

    Denial anyone wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:28 PM:

    " OH YES, Being gay is most definately a choice! Ever seen gay birds, dogs or pigs? I think NOT! Whether its in the bible or not, its not intended by natrure. Evolution or Christian, whatever your belief, makes no difference, its a choice. No one chose to be straight, lol, we were ALL born that way, made that way to serve the purpose of reproduction and NOT to be twisted for personal perverted satisfaction. "

    Scared Valley Resident wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:02 PM:

    " Reading these comments has me scared.....scared for what the religious zealots in the valley are teaching their children and proposing to do in the name of religion......scared for the 1st amendment rights for all residents of the valley......scared of people who would actually threaten to take a book out of the library and destroy it in order to prevent someone who might have an interest in reading it from having access.It's interesting that some of those who claim to be patriotic and believe we should make the world think our way miss the 1st amendment when studying the constitution. "

    Get Real wrote on Sep 24, 2008 11:02 AM:

    " Gay Shmay. Do we rally have to have gay parades and gay books and gay Day. Boy if we aren't for gays we are against gays. Maybe the rest of us who aren't gay, just don't care. It isn't about who is right or wrong. It is about kids reading material they arent ready for. Maybe we should leave all the books in the library, and hang a sign "No One Under 21 Allowed Unless Accompanied By An Adult" "

    If Its on the internet wrote on Sep 24, 2008 10:54 AM:

    " IT"S IN YOUR HOME!

    Years ago I went to pick my sons up from our local library. The youngest, 10, was completely engrossed in what he was viewing on the computer, no idea I was standing over him as he was watched. But the man that was setting by him..he knew I was there... and he left!

    I asked the head librarian how children could accsess this stuff. I was told they are not allowed to censor anything as it was a PUBLIC library.

    So ANYTHING in book form IS avaiable on computer, including the Bible "

    Jim wrote on Sep 24, 2008 9:18 AM:

    " They don't want any books on homosexuality in the library because they only want two choices for kids that are gay and have no one to talk to about it...turn or burn! Basically either turn or commit suicide because we hate you. That is exactly the message these so called Christians want. They don't want gay kids to know that there is another way...to live your life as a gay person. Yes, it's not easy because of all the hate from religion, but if you avoid those people and the hate they spew you'll be happy! "

    S.M. - Palmer - part 2 wrote on Sep 24, 2008 9:00 AM:

    " With that being said, you may not want your children reading all the material available at a library. It is your job then, as a parent, to work with your child to explain your views and direct your children accordingly. However, it is incredibly anti-american of you to demand that information be expelled from my childs life just because you don't want your child exposed to it. The whole reason our country is at war in Iraq is to prevent this type of dictatorial behavior. "

    S.M. - Palmer - Part 1 wrote on Sep 24, 2008 8:51 AM:

    " Some of the comments here really scare me. If the comments expressed here are a true representation of Mat-Su citizens, then our community is only a small step away from the attitudes of early Nazi Germany. You want to expunge what you don't like and believe that the only truth path to the future is to "cleanse" away that with which you don't agree. Every library in the world should have access to every book in the world from the Bible to the Necronomicon - for all literature has purpose and the ability to educate. "

    jp wrote on Sep 24, 2008 8:07 AM:

    " i agree with the writer known as censorship, this is a "public" library, and should only have materials acceptable to all people . this means like a rated "G" to a "PG" type reading material, so, i'd throw the bible out as well! it's too suggestive! "

    censorship wrote on Sep 24, 2008 12:32 AM:

    " this paper has no problem not printing comments. Apparently this is no place for certain material. A public library should not be able to have certain materials. If you want to learn about controversial issues, get your own copy or look on the internet. The public doesn't need to be exposed to that excrement. "

    I want in wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:04 PM:

    " I have some old vintage erotica and beastiliaty books to donate. Let's put them in the new Weird West Wing Section of the library. I'm sure there will be lots of donations under our constitutional rights that will allow this. "

    MPetrelis wrote on Sep 23, 2008 6:55 PM:

    " Even though there have been a few nasty messages posted, especially about burning books and disparaging my line of employment, I'm proud to live in a country with free speech protections. As a gay man, I've always loved libraries. Public institutions that share knowledge through books, from the bible to gay autobiographies, need more dollars and support from voters, and readers. I understand Wasilla's library has suffered cutbacks, so my small gesture will assist in either putting two gay books on the shelves, or seeing them sold and the profit going to the library. Keep the debate civil, ok? "

    Oops wrote on Sep 23, 2008 6:42 PM:

    " When the big cats away - the mice will play!

    When Sarah's put in her place - she'll be back to deal with the library and all of this poor state. It's a shame Alaskans bow to her. It's pathetic. She should be made accountable before we ALLOW her to continue as the govenor. "

    LIBERAL NARROWMINDEDNESS IS PHOBIC wrote on Sep 23, 2008 5:54 PM:

    " I am greatly saddened at the intolerance pushed on America by the homosexual community. Their hate filled parades in San Fransico and Anchorage pushes a narrow agenda.(We're here, we're qu**r, get used to it!)I just hate it when narrowminded heterophobes on the left try to preach their intolerant views to our kids. Why can't they just accept us for who we are, why do they need to judge and use so much hate speech to try to tear us down. This is America, we are still free! Mike Petrelis please keep your hate in SanFran, respectfully, the USA! "

    JP wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:32 PM:

    " was the obama rally part of the gay/lesbian biker rally? or is that just what they're calling the democratic party? "

    jp wrote on Sep 23, 2008 3:25 PM:

    " you can put the books in there, you don't have to encourage to have it read.
    i'm sure it will end up with all the other books like Obamas and Sarahs, on the shelf where once there was hype, then they're not even noticed, and forgotten. those books are so..........yesterday! "

    David wrote on Sep 23, 2008 2:16 PM:

    " Ban The Bible from all libraries. It is full of way too much violence, rape, murder and incest. Won't somebody please think of the children?? Oh yeah, don't got to the library wearing a wool/cotton blend; you'll be damned for all eternity! "

    Get Real wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:51 PM:

    " I dont think any kids need to be reading about any sexuality at the library. The library is about learning. If adults want to have it available to read for them selves buy your own copy. Who wants to read another person sex book. It is the parents responsibility to provide their child with the sex education of their choice. Not the public library and let's not fight about it! "

    Linguist wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:33 PM:

    " Way back when I was first struggling with the realization that I was gay almost nothing on the subject in my public library. I knew nothing about it, knew no one I could talk to about it, was terrified and completely alone.

    The little information I eventually did glean was so distorted and scary that I became convinced I was done for.

    I almost didn't survive.

    For Heaven's sake, and for the sake of gay kids --like the one I was-- PLEASE don't hide information on this from the ones who desperately need it. PLEASE. "

    The third book wrote on Sep 23, 2008 1:12 PM:

    " I just heard there is a third book being sent to the Wasilla Library --------- Daddy's roommate has an STD. "

    Bogie wrote on Sep 23, 2008 12:59 PM:

    " Mom of 5,

    Where in the article does it say that Petrelis is gay? You don't know that he's gay or if he's promoting homosexuality. That fact that he wants the books to be available doesn't necessarily mean that he's promoting homosexuality. Even if he is gay, that doesn't make him scary.

    The article states that Petrelis works writing Freedom of Information Act requests. He may well be gainfully employed doing just that. Requesting info. is not against the law. Though if it were I expect you'ld never be accused of breaking it. "

    JP wrote on Sep 23, 2008 12:14 PM:

    " Mom Grandma,
    Let's ban books JUST LIKE THE NATZIS DID that's the way to educate people, prevent them from learning about anything YOU don't like or understand. What are you afraid of? That maybe what you believe is not true or real, why is it always the answer with ignorant people that the first response is to BAN IT. Are they so insecure of their own beliefs that they are afraid of anything that differs from their beliefs. SAD, very sad. "

    MaxKatt1 from NYC wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM:

    " I LOVE IT! Wish I had thought of it first. I understand that she didn't actually ban a book, but I think it was wildly inappropriate for her to test the waters. I think this is an excellent response to what was clearly at veiled attempt at censorship. "

    Bohdan Szejner wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:53 AM:

    " Christianity is not about banning, but about teaching. This said, homosexuality is destroying the human person, and children should not be exposed to such books. This is common sense. the parents themselves should make sure that pernicious items are kept away from their children! This is not the governor's job, but a parental responsibility! "

    mom grandma wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:37 AM:

    " I don't think those books should be in the library. I agree with what Tammy wrote, there should be more Biblical based stories. Lets all pull together as parents and promote that these books be banned from our public library. "

    Eman wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:06 AM:

    " Great has it correct. Palin never banned any books. She tried to, but was unsuccessful.

    Palin also never intimidated Walt Monnegan. Again, she tried to, but failed.

    Palin never brought a bridge to an airport. She tried to, but failed. Instead she built a road to nowhere.

    Pretty funny how the rightwing hangs itself with babble. "

    danny wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:19 AM:

    " Go ahead and put this trash on the shelves of the library. When you do, I personnally will check them out and you will never see them again. I'm sure they will burn just fine!! "

    Alan Canon wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:09 AM:

    " What a wonderful idea...donate books to the Wasilla library! I'm going to send them my John Shelby Spong "Why Chrisitanity Must Change or Die" collection and a couple of books on evolution by Richard Dawkins.

    Anybody else? Let's help make Wasilla's library a place of pilgrimage for wonderful books on many different subjects! "

    JP wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:02 AM:

    " MOM,
    Did you CHOOSE to be Straight? I thought NOT, so why do to you say CHOSEN lifestyle? It's not a LIFESTYLE, sexuality is not a lifestyle, other wise why don't you say the Heterosexual lifestyle, oh would be saying straights CHOOSE to be straight. No one CHOOSES to be gay or straight and if you believe other wise then prove you chose to be straight. Prove it. You can't because you never chose it, you just are the way you are. "

    jules wrote on Sep 23, 2008 10:02 AM:

    " Let's hope that this library, and any library, will keep the the filth of the buy-bull off of shelves that are in reach of impressionable children. "

    JP wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:49 AM:

    " To Both Great and Tammy,
    No one is shoving anyone's sexuality down anyone's throat. I am so sick of people saying that, it's not like we don't see hetero sexuality on every billboard, commercial, add in a magazine promoting hetero sex everyday. This is a Public Library so all books should be available for anyone to check out. About biblical stories I really don't want my children to be exposed to all the MURDER, ADULTERY, WAR, and VILE contents that's in the bible. Have you read the bible Tammy? I doubt it. "

    MOM of 5 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:43 AM:

    " yeah for sure, hes not a supporter.. but some kind of promoter for the CHOSEN gay lifestyle...kind of like a car salesman?

    He spends his life requesting information?....This is very scary, a gay man, no real job, sitting at his computer all day...pushing books that are directed towards children about his homosexuality...YIKES!

    I would expect the library to take care in which section these books are placed if they should chose to shelf them. No child should have access to these books without approval of a parent! EVER! "

    Palmer Resident wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:41 AM:

    " The public library is intended to serve the entire public, religious, non-religious, homosexual, heterosexual, and so on. If you don't want your kids reading certain books...do your job as their parent and don't let them read them! Of course, a better parenting technique would be to not shield your children from any knowledge but encourage them to think critically about it and come to their own conclusions. "

    Nicole wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:23 AM:

    " How ignorant can you be?? These books are not "shoving their sexual orientation down our throats?" How would you feel if your child was put into this type of situation?? It is a resource!
    Church's promote the circulation of the Bible, so do Christian book stores, you don't need the Library to do that for you. "

    AKBoy30 wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:13 AM:

    " Tammy, The gentleman mentioned in this article is providing books to the library because he believes the messages they contain are important. I agree with you that biblically-based stories are also important - my father used to read to me every night from a book of illustrated bible stories and I think I am a better person for it. Perhaps, as you are so concerned, you will make a donation of books to the library yourself. There are lots to choose from, as you no doubt know, and I'm sure the library would welcome your contribution. "

    Great... wrote on Sep 23, 2008 9:05 AM:

    " Another person shoving their sexual orientation down our throats. What about the parents who do not want their children exposed to such books? What is the library going to do about that? I suppose we will have to keep our children out of the library. This man has too much time on his hands. FACT: Palin NEVER BANNED ANY BOOKS. "

    Tammy wrote on Sep 23, 2008 8:46 AM:

    " I wish people would promote the circulation of Biblical based stories and the Bible as much as they promote other literature! How my heart grieves. "

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