Former Saline County librarian honored after months-long controversy regarding censorship

SALINE COUNTY, Ark – A former Saline County librarian is turning the page on a new story, hoping it will inspire others to stick up for what they believe in.

Patty Hector was awarded the 2024 Lemony Snicket Prize from the American Library Association. The award is given out to noble librarians who are face with adversity.

Hector first made headlines in 2023, when she became the center of a debate in Saline County.

After a new county ordinance was passed, Hector was asked to relocate books from the children’s section that were deemed ‘inappropriate’ by the Saline County Republican Party.

At the time, Hector refused, claiming the removal was based on political beliefs and was targeting books based on LGBTQ and race.

“To me equal rights for people is the line that I will not cross,” Hector said.

Hector was ultimately fired from her position as Saline County Library Director.

At the time, David Gibson with the Republican party told KARK 4, “This move has everything to do with protecting children and has nothing to do with politics.”

Hector disagrees. Despite everything that happened, Hector said she doesn’t regret sticking to her morals and beliefs. She said she’s happy that someone is finally recognizing her efforts.

“People have the right to read whatever they want,” Hector said.

The American Library Association said Hector was awarded the prize because of “her unwavering commitment to intellectual freedom and her resilience in the face of adversity.”

Previous winners include librarians who endured natural disasters, fought through life altering illnesses, and against a community trying to censor books.

After months of unfortunate events, Hector said she can finally rest easy, knowing her story has a happy ending.

Her message to other librarians is to stand strong and stand up for what they believe.

“Stand strong. Follow your personal ethics and your professional ethics. You have to stand up to bullies,” Hector stated.

Hector will be honored at the American Library Association conference in June in San Diego, California.

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