Request For Reconsideration

IX. Reconsideration of Library Materials

DAPL is committed to freedom of speech, thought, and expression as stated in the Constitution of the United States. DAPL attempts to reflect a wide range of viewpoints within our community. DAPL does not endorse the viewpoints expressed in the materials in its collection. 

• DAPL maintains a “Request for Reconsideration Form” if DAPL cardholders or residents of DAPL’s legal service area wish to challenge library materials. 
  • A person may fill out a “Request for Reconsideration From” the outcome of which could include the following: the item remains the same within DAPL’s collection; removal of the item from DAPL; relocation of the item within DAPL; balancing the collection with other suggested material within DAPL. 
  • Notification that the request has been received along with an estimated time frame for a written response will be given to the patron within 10 business days. 
  • The Request will be reviewed by DAPL’s director and staff in relation to DAPL’s mission and the selection criteria stated in this policy. 
  • Requests will be reviewed in the order they are received. 
  • No patron may challenge more than three items per month. 
  • A written response to the “Request for Reconsideration Form” will be provided by DAPL’s director. 
  • All complaints brought to DAPL are public record.
  • If a patron wishes to appeal the decision of DAPL’s director they may do so to DAPL’s Library Board.
  • The appeal must be submitted in writing at least 10 days prior to the next regularly scheduled board meeting.
  • Decisions will be based on the review of the patron’s stated objection, the nature of the material, and library policy.  
  • The DAPL Library Board will not reconsider more than three appeals per board meeting, the appeals will be addressed in the order they are received. 
  • A vote by DAPL’s Library Board will be made to retain, remove, relocate, or balance the material. 
  • An item that has been challenged and retained by DAPL’s Library Board may not be challenged again by any person for three years. The decision of the board is final.