Controversy Over Children's Book Erupts In Colchester

COLCHESTER, CT — A children's book about the drag queen RuPaul is causing controversy in Colchester, as some say that the book includes sexually provocative drawings. However, other parents are defending the book and say it's about being accepting of everyone, according to NBC CT.

The book is a part of a series that was featured in the library's Pride display. First Selectman Andreas Bisbikos wrote on Facebook that a parent "brought forward a serious concern" regarding the book. Bisbikos said the book contains "sexually provocative drawings" that the parent found offensive.

However, Kate Byrode, Cragin Memorial Library director, said that anyone can fill out a form raising concerns about the library's material, but that no one has done so for this book, according to NBC CT.

Bisbikos said the book was "immediately removed from circulation" and asked Byrode to "begin an inventory of the children's material."

Many felt that the response was heavy-handed, according to NBC CT.

Bisbikos responded with the following on Facebook:

"This was never about censorship and the First Selectman plays no role in what books are purchased or displayed in our library. I was merely attempting to be responsive to a concern coming from a parent in our town. It was never the intention to permanently remove any books but to merely question if they belonged in the children’s section or the adult section; therefore, I reached out to our Director of Library Services. I have instructed the parent that they have five (5) days to file the appropriate paperwork with the library placing their complaint in writing at which time it will be the Director of Library Services and solely the Director of Library services, duty to respond."