Revised Draft of Policy D033 – Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration

To Our Library Community,

At last month’s Board of Trustees meeting, the proposed Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration policy (D033) was tabled for further review and thoughtful discussion. Since then, the Board has carefully listened to the many individuals who took the time to speak during public comment and to send written feedback. We are grateful to everyone who shared their perspectives.

In response to that feedback, the proposed policy has been revised. The new Citizen’s Request for Reconsideration policy (D033) draft is now available for public review and will be up for discussion at the July Board of Trustees meeting. We wanted to ensure that those interested have time to review it before the July meeting.

Key Highlights of the Revised Draft:

• The proposed policy continues to mirror the Library’s existing reconsideration procedure, including the right to appeal the decision of the Reconsideration Committee.
   
• To provide more clarity, the Board has outlined the steps for the appeals process:
   
  • The Board will first determine whether the Reconsideration Committee followed established procedures.
     
  • Based on that review, the Board may uphold the decision, refer the matter back to the CEO, or consider the appeal at a regular or special Board meeting.
     
  • Prior to participating in an appeal, Board members must review the material or display in question and complete the new member orientation, which includes instruction on relevant ALA standards (e.g., Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read Statement, Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights).
     

After reviewing all related documentation—including the original request, committee findings, and any patron statements—the Board will render a decision by supermajority vote (6 of 9 members).

We sincerely appreciate your engagement in this process. Your involvement strengthens our library and ensures it remains a responsive and trusted resource for all.

Sincerely,
Matthew Seeds

President
Board of Trustees