Iowa Public Library Explores Legal Action After Man Burns LGBT Books
DESTRUCTIVE
Christian burned the books in a Facebook video.
Reuters / Axel Schmidt
A public library in Iowa is exploring legal options after a Christian rented and publicly burned several LGBTQ books last week. Paul Dorr, director of a religious group called Rescue The Perishing, threw children’s books with LGBTQ themes into a burning trash can ahead of a local Pride event. He claimed he'd rented the books from Orange City Public Library. Amanda Vazquez, the library's director, said the organization had “alerted the board” and spoke with authorities to determine “next steps,” including possible legal action. The Orange City Police Chief confirmed that parties were discussing legal action, but declined to comment further. “Frankly, I found it disgusting,” said Mark Stringer, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Iowa. “We are disturbed to see this.”
