Nelson: Safeguard universal access to information at libraries

In my freshman year of high school, one of the first things I was taught was how to examine a website for factual inaccuracies and bias. I learned to read between the lines and analyze potential biases to uncover the truth behind the content. However, this is often challenging. Confirmation bias and the pandering of certain media outlets to specific viewpoints have become alarmingly prevalent and hard to escape. This is why libraries and unrestricted access to books are more important than ever.

I am deeply concerned about the Garfield County Commissioners’ recent decision to take control of selecting library trustees. Previously, the library board itself selected new members, but now the Board of County Commissioners has made it so they are the sole authority in choosing trustees. This change is troubling, as the commission has not provided a clear explanation for why they altered the process, raising concerns that the shift could be politically motivated.

I strongly believe politics should not play a role in our libraries, as it risks leading to polarization and censorship through government interference. With book banning on the rise, we should be focusing on safeguarding universal access to information. Yet, it seems the commissioners disagree, as they sent a directive to the library board last fall to begin restricting access to certain books.

As an 18 year old, I now have the opportunity to influence issues I care about by voting. I hope you will join me in supporting the two county commissioner candidates who oppose censorship and value free access to information in our libraries: Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza.

Isla Brumby Nelson

Glenwood Springs