Library Patrons Protest Pride Display by Checking out LGBTQ+ Books, Refusing to Return Them

San Diego's library network has seen over a dozen LGBTQ+ books checked out by two patrons who vow not to return them until the library's Pride display is removed, as reported by CBS8.

The Rancho Peñasquitos Library received an email from the two protestors in mid-June after they had borrowed 14 displayed books, according to the San Diego Tribune. They objected to the books' discussions of gender and sexuality.

"Minor children have the right to belong to a community that respects their innocence and allows families to discuss sex and sexual attraction privately, and only when parents consider it appropriate," the email to the library read, as per the outlet.

Misty Jones, the Head Librarian, told the publication that backlash against Pride-focused inclusivity efforts has become "progressively worse" over the past five years, but "this is a new one for us."

She replied to the protesters' email to emphasize the significance of fostering an inclusive space in the library.

“Displays such as the one at Rancho Peñasquitos send a powerful message that LGBTQ+ patrons and their allies are respected members of our community,” Jones wrote. “They also serve to encourage conversations and dispel misconceptions and stereotypes that often surround the LGBTQ+ community.”

San Diego City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert expressed to CBS8 that the residents' attempt to censor the books was "really not okay."

"We didn't really think we had that level of fear and hate in our town. But apparently, we do," von Wilpert stated.

She started a fundraiser with the San Diego Library Foundation and the LGBT Community Center to replace the books taken from the library.

“I'm very excited that what started as an incident based on intolerance and hate, has now blossomed into this wonderful fundraiser where we're going to have not only Pride displays at one library, but now all 36 libraries,” she said.

Library officials told CBS8 that there are no plans to take down Pride displays at the libraries, and Jones told the outlet that the displays are no more controversial than other seasonal or cultural displays the library creates.

“We are proud of our position in encouraging members of our community to learn, grow and celebrate our differences.”