MEEKER | The Meeker Public Library Board held its regular monthly meeting last week in the community room. Outgoing board President Meredith Deming, John Moffitt, Keri Grieser, Michael Cobb, and newly appointed member Toby Leavitt attended in person. Board member Dan Olson participated via Zoom.
The meeting began with the board approving the agenda after removing and tabling action item A. Following the approval, the board opened the floor for public comments.
Several community members expressed concerns about book banning. Jeff Madison, a community member, apologized for his delayed involvement and shared his thoughts on the issue.
“I didn’t realize there was a 2024 bill addressing exactly what we’re talking about until I walked in here tonight,” Madison said. “While I’m sympathetic to not wanting a third grader, for instance, to have access to certain material, I think that’s between the parent and the child — not a board.”
He added, “Your job is to set board policy, not select books or decide what’s good or bad for this community. Let your librarian do their job.”
Another speaker, community member Toni Phillippi, said it was her first meeting after just returning from her home country.
“I became an American citizen many years ago. I’m very proud to be an American, and I truly believe in freedom of choice,” Phillippi said. “I think there can be a very fine line between conservatism and fascism.”
Following the public comments, the board held officer elections for the year. Deming recommended Keri Grieser as the next board president, citing her responsiveness and engagement. Board member Olson nominated John Moffitt for the position.
“There are additional responsibilities that the president’s role entails,” Deming said. “Number one, she’s a signer on our bank account, and John, you are not. You’ve said multiple times you don’t want any part of the finances. As secretary, we’ve had to change the minutes multiple times under your tenure. Last Keri responds quickly to emails and does her homework on various topics.”
Moffitt acknowledged the challenges he faced as secretary but expressed his readiness for the presidency.
“I agree my secretary role was a challenge,” Moffitt said. “But I think I have a lot of experience dealing with all kinds of issues. Once I commit, it’s not a problem to do it.”
The board voted 3-2 in favor of Moffitt as the new board president. Grieser was subsequently elected vice president, while incoming member Toby Leavitt was chosen as board secretary.
Toward the end of the meeting, the board discussed hiring two additional library employees. The motion passed 3-2.
The meeting adjourned with the next work session scheduled for Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m.