But in 1995, Ms. Palin, then a city councilwoman, told colleagues that she had noticed the book “Daddy’s Roommate” on the shelves and that it did not belong there, according to Ms. Chase and Mr. Stein. Ms. Chase read the book, which helps children understand homosexuality, and said it was inoffensive; she suggested that Ms. Palin read it.

“Sarah said she didn’t need to read that stuff,” Ms. Chase said. “It was disturbing that someone would be willing to remove a book from the library and she didn’t even read it.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/14/us/politics/14palin.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

http://www.adn.com/sarah-palin/story/515512.html

Recent news reports have debunked the internet rumors that there was a list of books that Palin wanted removed from the library but, as the above article evidences, her intent is very murky.

However, whether or not there was a list of specific books that Palin asked to be banned is not my concern. I am shocked that an elected official would even consider or raise the issue of removing books from the shelves of a public library. Censorship is a blatant violation of the 1st amendment of the Constitution – the very same constitution she would be pledging to protect if elected.

http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/basics/Default2272.cfm

I do want to point out that the librarian did not bring up this issue; rather, a woman who has been quite vocal recently in her dislike for Palin has demonstrated a remarkable ability to quote conversations from 12 years ago without the use of written notes.

Until another person from those days, either from Wasilla’s city council or library, can substantiate her implications that Palin supports book banning or was plotting to remove specific titles from the Wasilla library, I maintain my confidence that Sarah Palin is not interested in banning books.

The manufactured “controversy” stems from over a decade ago, when a Wasilla librarian was asked (in the “vetting” process, to coin a popular term!) what she would do if she were asked to ban a book.

The recounting of this event by people not even involved has morphed into the LIE that Palin fired the librarian because she refused to ban books that Palin found objectionable.

1) No books were ever banned.
2) No banning was ever requested.
3) The librarian was not fired, although she did resign her position while Palin was mayor of Wasilla.

As always with politics, there are grudges and agendas driving the airing of this “scandal.” You can research the many opinions on the matter at adn.com or read a list of “Separating Palin Fact from Palin Fiction” at pajamasmedia.com

Sadly, I find there is a growing trend for the government to be responsible instead of us being responsible for ourselves/our children. As much as I hate censorship and government involvement I bet this will be something that we see more of in the future.