BPC Bulletin: Banning Books in Valleyview, Alberta
News Reports and Commentary Selected by Franklin Carter of the Book and Periodical Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee.
In the small town of Valleyview, Alberta, social conservatives are campaigning to rid the public library of books about sexual minorities.
The campaign received Canada-wide attention on February 7, 2025, when CBC News publicized the results of a major investigation.
But the struggle between the social conservatives and their critics has not ended. The mayor and town council still have plans to reduce library funding, shut down the current library, and open a smaller public library in a K–12 school that has not been built.
REPORTAGE
Catherine Garrett of CBC News reports:
Northern Alberta residents pack small town meeting over library's future | CBC News
In The Hamilton Spectator, Jesse Boily reports:
Abuse of power and lack of transparency among former trustee’s concerns in Valleyview
Grant LaFleche, Rachel Ward, and Mark Kelley of CBC News report:
Mark Kelley of The Fifth Estate reports:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRDL9Fm1ZLA
On The Current, Matt Galloway interviews Mark Kelley:
Muck Rack | The Current With Matt Galloway - Library budget cuts highlight divisions in an Alberta town - Muck Rack
COMMENTARY
Supporters of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network write:
Sending Love: Canadians Standing Up For the Valleyview Library - Canadian Anti-Hate Network
Thanks go to Anita Jenkins who provided the news tip.
The Book and Periodical Council was formed in 1975 as the Book and Periodical Development Council to provide a venue for members to discuss industry issues, address mutual concerns and undertake projects for the benefit of Canadian writing and publishing.
