Censorship is dangerous public policy

Abstract

Last month Springfield voters approved an amendment to the city charter that prohibits the city to encourage or promote homosexuality. The Oregon Citizens Alliance plans to remove “objectionable books” about the homosexual lifestyle from local schools and libraries. In this editorial, the dangers of censorship and control of available reading materials are discussed. Springfield Librarian Arlo Giles plans to continue with the current selection policy unless instructed otherwise by city officials.