With enormous deference to the profession, you would not generally expect that the American Association of School Librarians convention would generate fear, loathing, threats, and tears.

You would be shocked. It happened at their recent conference in Tampa. There were threats, demonstrations, and some attendees didn't want their names to be known that they had attended the meetings because of the fear of retribution.

In Canada, there have been more reports of violence in or around libraries. I worry that these seem to be increasing.

As homelessness accelerates, some library boards are implementing policies concerning personal hygiene inside the library premises. Sad.

These incidents are putting extra pressure on librarians, library boards, school boards, and city councils. It is likely that stress will become more intense because social and street difficulties are accelerating in most communities.

Books themselves have always been susceptible to scrutiny; that is a reasonable intellectual process. But today, professors and educators live in terror of being called-out by a student for using certain words or suggesting certain books to read.

There have been book-burnings in some cities. Book burnings! Did you ever think you would see that in 2023? The history of book burnings and what that meant to that society is horrific.

We're even in a time when 'unknown assailants' attack and destroy those charming and innocent little community "Book Boxes" that pop up on the lawns of moms and dads supporting kids getting more books to read, and where people quietly exchange one book for another.

This saddens me enormously. Those of you who know me or have heard me speak or read my books know that I am a passionate supporter of libraries, reading, and the freedom to discuss and debate provocative ideas.

But these freedoms do not come without the muscular support of the community and our elected officials.

Surely there are few things more important in child-rearing than parents reading a book to their children. They can instill a love of reading and learning and exploring that will last a lifetime.

If we can't fight against a book being banned just because the author's name was spelled "G A Y", what will the next generation think about our stewardship of libraries, education, freedom, and books?

This is where our cities must step up and show leadership. They must be stalwart in supporting libraries and their unique role as a neutral and safe oasis in an often-fractious society. And libraries and library boards must remain courageous, responsive and creative as they navigate the rocky shoals of society today.

And surely, I beg all of you, find time this week to read a kid a book.