Pierre - The South Dakota Library Association's membership is concerned about the recent actions taken on the State Library's Teenwire page. The State Library constructed this website in consultation with librarians who interact with teens on a daily basis and understand their need for honest albeit embarrassing information. Libraries of all types have developed similar web pages in an effort to guide teens to accurate and authoritative information as well as to discourage use of less appropriate websites. We urge the Governor to reconsider the removal of the Teenwire page.

The Internet is one of many important information resources and our goal as South Dakotan librarians is to help people of all ages make the most of it. Librarians answer questions and guide children to quality web sites the same way they recommend books and other resources. One of our duties is to select materials, not censor. Selection means we carefully evaluate materials (books, videos, web sites, etc) based on the content and quality of the material, the appropriateness, the needs of our customers and our budget. We try to provide a broad range of materials and ideas for our customers (who themselves have multiple perspectives). On the other hand, censorship is rejecting materials not based on evaluation, but on personal objection. The Library Bill of Rights states, "[l]ibraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval."

Libraries welcome input from their customers. If a patron objects to an item, then it is reviewed by the local governing board. The board weighs the complaint versus the library policies and makes a decision. Each case is different. At the same time, we purchase/select materials based on recommendations from individuals. Libraries do not want to stifle protest nor limit one's freedom. Librarians provide balance and ensure quality of information and libraries provide the freedom to access the information.

The South Dakota Library Association strives to promote library service of the highest quality for present and potential South Dakota library users; to provide opportunities for professional involvement of all persons engaged in any phase of librarianship within the state; and to further the professional development of South Dakota librarians, trustees, and library employees. SDLA is a chapter of the American Library Association and is a state member of the Mountain Plains Library Association.