Rhea Young Removed as Montgomery County Library Director Following Public Concerns

Officials in Montgomery County have formally dismissed Rhea Young, the executive director of the Montgomery County Memorial Library System, in response to public concerns regarding the accessibility of conservative literature. The decision follows several months of discussion regarding the library's book review policies and the accessibility of its content.

Following a private executive session on January 28, the commissioners appointed County Judge Mark Keough to supervise the county's library operations, although Young's termination was not officially disclosed then. On January 29, Keough’s office confirmed Young's removal from her position.

“Yesterday, I was appointed by the Commissioners Court to oversee the Memorial Library System,” Keough stated. “I met with the library director and decided to terminate her employment with Montgomery County.” The library system's future is of utmost importance to me, and I will promptly initiate a nationwide search for a new director who aligns with the community's values and honors the direction set by the Commissioners Court.

Young has been in charge of the library system since 2022, taking over after Jerrilyn Williams retired.

The debate started in October when the county updated its policy regarding evaluating library books unsuitable for children. The policy change sought to limit book challenges to library cardholders, preventing nonresidents from submitting such difficulties. A committee of five members, appointed by county officials, oversees the review process.

At a meeting on January 28, community members expressed various views regarding library policies and Young's leadership. Some expressed concerns about the possible removal of books on gender topics, while others commended Young’s efforts in preserving a diverse and captivating library system.

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