SPANISH FORT — The Spanish Fort mayor said a graphic book brought to his attention by 1819 News has no place in the city library.
"Let's Talk About It: The Teen's Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human" contains explicit, nude images and encourages readers to search the internet for pornography, people and communities who share sexual interests. The book features details on how to use sex toys and perform sexual acts.
Mayor Michael McMillan said the book has been pulled from the shelves for review and will be considered at the library board's next meeting on Jan. 6, 2025.
"That book, in my opinion, has no place in Spanish Fort Library," McMillan said. "That's the way I feel."
When asked about the book last week, McMillan did not immediately respond to its contents but stated that the library had adopted guidelines to review and determine what content is appropriate for children and youth under 18.
After taking time to read through the material, he said he understood why parents would be concerned.
"I had to see it for myself, and the other day, I really couldn't go further until I knew all the details," McMillan told 1819 News. "But you know, I'm not on the library board. The library board will make that decision."
If the board decides to keep the book in the teen section, the library risks losing state funding. Alabama Public Library System (APLS) chairman John Wahl told 1819 News that the book exemplifies why the APLS has new rules for libraries concerning explicit materials in children and teen sections.
"I'm not very fond about losing funding in any way. I understand that the GOP chairman made that statement and I would invite him to come down and let us have a conversation," McMillan responded.
During its regular meeting, the Spanish Fort City Council appointed members to its Library Board on Monday night.
Those appointed were board chairman Robert Curtis Smith, Jr., Carl L. Gustafson, Jr., Shane M. Perry, Jr., Councilman Stephen J. Winn and Mary W. Brabner.
Winn is the only new member, replacing former councilman J.R. Smith.
The new board will serve until Nov. 3, 2025.
The Spanish Fort Library was formed in 2015 and is a city department.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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