Controversy surrounding Christian County Library District concerns residents

NIXA, Mo. — On Tuesday, locals filled the meeting room of the Christian County Public Library in Nixa after several parents raised concerns about children being able to access books that contain nudity and LGBTQ+ content without labels or warning signs.

But before the meeting took place, the library board of trustees held a special meeting to discuss recent changes made to the board and if they violated any sunshine laws in the process.

The Christian County Library District — along with one of the board members — is suing three other members of the board of trustees, saying they violated the Missouri Sunshine Law and the board’s bylaws when they held August’s special election.

“Because we made an error as the board, that is why we had this special meeting tonight and why there is an issue that we are needing to contact higher legal help — the Attorney General — to make sure we have not violated the law and that things can proceed,” said Hagen.

Janis Hagen is the secretary on the board of trustees and is listed as the person who is suing three members, who in the lawsuit says violated the Missouri Sunshine Law and the board’s bylaws.

During the special meeting, the board discussed the legality of the special election.

“According to my understanding of what happened at this special meeting just now, it’s in limbo because of abstentions and lack of comment,” said Hagen.

But that’s not the only thing residents are worried about. Several parents in Christian County are voicing their frustrations when it comes to the reading material their children have access to.

“The idea of labeling books is not about banning books or restricting access to them. It certainly isn’t about banning free speech. There are labels and warnings on many things that are protected under free speech,” said a concerned parent who spoke at the meeting.

One parent says labeling LGBTQ+ books could hinder children’s abilities to explore who they are and make them feel singled out.

“I just don’t feel like it’s fair. We don’t label books based on any other human attribute, you know,” said Tamara Yancy.

The board voted at its last meeting to consider adding warnings and labels to certain books. The board of trustees will continue to seek legal counsel to see if they violated any laws in their election.

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