Kenosha County resolution asks libraries to create a 'secure, adult-only' section

KENOSHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Some county board members in Kenosha say they want libraries to be safer for children by picking what sections books should be sorted into.

The resolution would require public libraries in Kenosha to create a secure "adult-only" section that would prevent children from accessing books that contain obscene language, sexually explicit content, and any other adult content.

Barbara Brattin is the director of the Kenosha Public Library. She says she knows the impact books have on people. 

“Libraries are where you can learn your whole life and it doesn’t matter how much money you have or your status in society. You’re always welcome," said Brattin. 

She says for children, libraries shape their education before it even begins. 

“They listen to stories, and they’re just exposed to all the knowledge around them," said Brattin.

At the Kenosha Public Library, Brattin says there's a section dedicated to child development and learning. That's why she says this resolution doesn't make sense. 

“It’s clear if you’re in this library that there is a very separate children’s section and the books that are in there are organized by reading level and interest," said Brattin. "So, I think this is probably a very narrow, small group of people who have a very broad view of what’s obscene in their minds."

The resolution would also require all underage people to get parental permission before checking out any material that is deemed "adult-only." 

"The idea of a public library, though, is public access to information and all kinds of view," said Brattin. “Those books are already in these sections, and we’ve read them.”

She says libraries have an organization system that protects children, despite the resolution arguing it doesn't. Brattin says for parents that are concerned about what their children are reading -- they can also view their library card history. 

The resolution will be voted on Wednesday night. CBS 58 reached out for a comment to board members -- we still haven't heard back. 

If the resolution passes the Kenosha County Board, it will have no effect on the libraries. Libraries operate under a municipality. City of Kenosha would have to take on this resolution and pass it for it to be enforced.