I was extremely saddened to hear from people close to the Topeka-Shawnee County Library board that it is split down the middle on a plan to censor books.

At issue is a request to put four books behind a counter. Why? Because someone doesn't like the content of the books.

Even though there have only been a handful of requests to ban or limit access to books the past few years, If the board votes to put the books behind a counter, then the floodgates will open.

Once the Library Board crosses that line of allowing censorship based on content, it will likely face hundreds of requests for books to be hidden behind the desk because one person finds the content objectionable.

That means that in the future, the library board will find its self spending hour after hour hearing arguments why a book should be put behind the counter. What a waste of time?

If you believe like I do, then make sure your voice is heard. Come and speak out for freedom of speech and against censorship. You can be heard when the library board takes up the issue Monday, February 19th at 4pm at the Library.

I want to know what you think, write me here at WIBW, 631 SW Commerce Pl., Topeka, KS 66615; or send me an