Ferguson Library Receives Threats Following Drag Story Time Event

STAMFORD, CT — The Stamford Police Department is investigating several threats that were made to Ferguson Library staff members following the library's "Drag Story Time" event earlier this month.

The event, which was held on Sept. 10 in conjunction with Stamford Pride, featured stories and songs from drag queen performers. The event's Facebook page called it appropriate for all ages.

Drag Story Time programs first began in San Francisco in 2015, said Ferguson Library Chief Executive Officer Alice Knapp, who noted that the library has been offering the event for about four years.

Beginning on Sept. 13, the library received numerous phone calls and voicemails from people complaining about the event, including two that were threatening, Knapp said.

"Very specifically, they said to watch my back when I go out to my car that evening," Knapp said of one of the voicemails. "They accused us of sexualizing children and they accused us of grooming children. It was particularly horrific because a drag story time is all about inclusivity, love, tolerance and self expression, and what they were saying and accusing us of doing was quite ugly."

Knapp believes the messages were part of a coordinated effort from a group of people, since there was similar language involved in each call. The messages came from different phone numbers, she said.

Stamford police were notified of the threats, and the department began an investigation and has increased security at the library, according to Capt. Richard Conklin of the SPD.

"These threats of physical violence are something we can't tolerate in Stamford," Conklin said.

Knapp, who has worked at Ferguson Library for 18 years, said threats against libraries across the country over books and programming have increased recently, especially on social media.

In the past, Knapp said residents would call and voice concerns over a book or a program in a civilized way.

"We would talk with them and maybe at the end of the day disagree, but at least there would be a conversation," Knapp said. "What was very clear in the messages that were left is that this wasn't about a conversation. This was about telling us how wrong we were. It was a very, very different tenor than anything I've ever seen before."

Conklin said there are a variety of avenues people can take to object to certain programming or library materials, like peaceful protests or writing to elected officials. Ferguson Library also has a process where people can submit complaints in writing.

Knapp said the threats have taken "an emotional toll' on the staff, but they've pushed through.

"I'm very proud of the staff here," Knapp said. "Our staff is strong and hearty, and we're ready to hold another Drag Story Time again."