Public Libraries Latest Battleground Over Access to Books

By Karen Diegmueller

In a growing number of communities, public libraries are replacing pornography shops as the target of attacks from citizens who fear children are being exposed to threatening materials.

Critics claim these attempts to restrict or remove books, magazines, and videos deemed inappropriate for children whiff of censorship. Others, however, view the actions as practical measures to protect youngsters.

"As parents, can't we get some reason, some common sense?" asked Karen Gounaud, a parent and activist who led recent efforts to limit children's access to certain publications in the Fairfax...