A former library director in Wyoming has reached a significant settlement following a contentious legal battle over LGBTQ+ book content. Terri Lesley, who was fired from her position in Campbell County, will receive $700,000 as part of the settlement involving her termination amid allegations related to book censorship.
Background of the Controversy
Lesley served as the Campbell County Library system director for over a decade, dedicating 27 years to the library in Gillette. Her dismissal in 2023 was rooted in complaints from certain community members about books with sexual content and LGBTQ+ themes, which they argued were unsuitable for young readers.
Details of the Settlement
The settlement was reached with county officials after a lawsuit was filed last spring. Lesley claimed that her firing was unjust, alleging that her First Amendment rights were violated as she refused to remove the contested books from library shelves. In her complaint, she stated that she engaged positively with LGBTQ+ individuals and faced a hostile work environment because of her beliefs.
Community Response and Legal Action
The controversy in Campbell County highlights a broader cultural conflict within the region, known for its conservative values. Lesley accused public officials of siding with those demanding the removal of LGBTQ+ literature while denying her purpose as a library director.
- Books involved in the dispute included:
- “This Book is Gay” by Juno Dawson
- “How Do You Make a Baby” by Anna Fiske
- “Doing It” by Hannah Witton
- “Sex is a Funny Word” by Corey Silverberg
- “Dating and Sex: A Guide for the 21st Century Teen Boy” by Andrew P. Smiler
Despite the county’s defense that her job performance led to her termination, Lesley believed the root cause was her refusal to comply with censorship demands. The county’s response has been met with skepticism, as Lesley reported that the library board did not provide clarity on which specific books were deemed objectionable.
Future Actions and Implications
Although Lesley is dropping her lawsuit against Campbell County as part of the settlement, she will proceed with a separate case against three individuals who challenged the books. Her attorney, Iris Halpern, expressed hope that the outcome sends a message about the importance of upholding First Amendment rights and fighting discrimination in public libraries.
This case reflects ongoing tensions over literature in libraries and underscores the need for public officials to recognize their constitutional obligations. As discussions about censorship and freedom of expression continue, the implications of this settlement will likely reverberate beyond Wyoming.
