We are excited to begin working with Acting Library Director Marlon Romero, who is managing the library until a permanent Library Director is hired. The City expects to hire a permanent director in early 2024. In the meantime, we are delighted to have Marlon on our team. I encourage you to stop by Books For Friends (BFF), our used bookshop, and the Library Friends Cafe.
BFF Bookstore Manager Philip Barry has updated the bookshop’s inventory. Check out the updated collection and the noteworthy display of diverse children’s books with beautiful illustrations. Just across from BFF, the Library Friends Cafe is adding healthy, delicious options to its array of food and drink offerings. Drop by the cafe for a pastry and hot beverage to enjoy with your new books from BFF. Plus, stay on the lookout for even more changes coming to the cafe soon!
I could go on about the horrific attempts to censor books throughout the country — and now in California at the Orange County School Board — but I know many of you are following the issue. I am especially appalled at the focus on children’s picture books. More than 300 picture books were challenged at schools in the 2021-2022 school year. Additionally, a few states have passed laws allowing elected officials to participate in the book review process. At BFF, we follow the model set by Judy Blume in her Florida bookstore — BFF SELLS BANNED BOOKS!