Baraboo Public Library: A Beacon of Wokeness in Small-Town America

In the heart of Baraboo, Wisconsin, a small town known for its circus heritage and Midwestern charm, the local public library has become a surprising battleground in the culture wars. The Baraboo Public Library, once a quiet haven for book lovers and knowledge seekers, has transformed into a beacon of wokeness, pushing an agenda that seems more fitting for a big city than a quaint town. This transformation began in earnest in 2022, when the library board decided to revamp its programming and collection to reflect what they called "modern values." But what does that really mean?

First off, let's talk about the book collection. The library has made a concerted effort to stock its shelves with titles that promote progressive ideologies. Gone are the days when you could find a balanced selection of literature. Now, the shelves are brimming with books on critical race theory, gender identity, and climate change alarmism. It's as if the library has decided that the only way to educate the public is through a singular, left-leaning lens. This isn't about providing diverse perspectives; it's about indoctrination.

Then there's the programming. The library has introduced a slew of events and workshops that cater to a specific worldview. Storytime for children now includes readings from books that focus on non-traditional family structures and gender fluidity. While it's important to acknowledge different family dynamics, the library's approach seems more like an attempt to normalize fringe ideas rather than educate. And let's not forget the adult workshops on "unpacking privilege" and "decolonizing your bookshelf." These events are less about fostering understanding and more about pushing a guilt-ridden narrative.

The library's staff has also undergone a transformation. New hires are often chosen based on their commitment to these progressive ideals rather than their qualifications or experience. This shift in hiring practices has led to a staff that is more interested in activism than in serving the community's diverse needs. It's no wonder that many long-time patrons feel alienated and unwelcome in a space that once felt like a second home.

The impact on the community has been significant. Many residents feel that the library no longer represents their values or interests. Instead of being a neutral ground for learning and exploration, the library has become a divisive force in the town. Parents are concerned about the messages being imparted to their children, and some have even stopped visiting altogether. The library, once a unifying institution, now stands as a symbol of the cultural divide.

Critics of the library's new direction argue that it is a misuse of taxpayer dollars. Public libraries are funded by the community and should serve the entire community, not just a vocal minority. By focusing so heavily on a particular set of beliefs, the library is failing in its mission to provide a balanced and inclusive environment for all.

The Baraboo Public Library's transformation is a microcosm of a larger trend happening across the country. Institutions that were once apolitical are now taking sides, often alienating those who don't subscribe to their newfound ideologies. It's a troubling development that raises questions about the role of public institutions in shaping societal values.

In the end, the Baraboo Public Library's shift towards wokeness is a cautionary tale. It's a reminder that even in small-town America, the culture wars are alive and well. As the library continues to push its agenda, one can only wonder what the future holds for this once-beloved community institution. Will it find a way to return to its roots, or will it continue down this path of division and exclusion? Only time will tell.