05-09-1963 (cutline): Stacks surround Miss Virginia Richardson at City Library.
Staff photo
01-20-1956: Richmond Public Library
Times-Dispatch
08-11-1958 (cutline): Public library using electronics for checking out books. Mrs. E. Harold Thompson has book checked out by Larry Brice.
Staff photo
10-14/1958 (cutline): Librarians Miss Carrie Anderson and Miss Virginia Richardson file books on the shelves of the City Library's music department, which has just been moved from basement to larger quarters on the second floor. Previously unoccupied, the space on the west side of the second floor was remodeled for the purpose.
Staff photo
05-09-1963 (cutline): City library employees check card files.
Staff photo
01/14/1965: Richmond Public Library
Staff photo
12-22-1964 (cutline): Marcellus Wright Jr. returns books.
Staff photo
1961: Mrs. Donald Miller chooses a book from new book shelf at Richmond Public Library.
Staff photo
12-29-1968 (cutline): Richmond Public Library
Staff photo
12-29-1966 (cutline): Snowed under, not by weather--by Robert Frost. Term papers mean holiday work for Mary Jo Barnette.
"The children" are the last refuge of scoundrels. This campaign is not so much about protecting children than hiding inconvenient or uncomfortable truths. That requires the denigration of both intelligence and professionalism, which is why librarians and books are under attack. Â
This national right-wing censorship project seeks to de-emphasize empathy, tolerance and understanding. It attacks diversity and inclusion in both education and public policy. Its goal is to prevent anyone — even elementary school students — from consuming information that might nourish their critical thinking skills.
To observe the political environment in Virginia, you’d think folks are wildly dissatisfied with K-12 public education, teachers are roundly despised, and book banning and historical whitewashing enjoy widespread support.
