Library system partners with Planned Parenthood to display sex-ed cabinets

A major public library system in California has partnered with Planned Parenthood to introduce “sexual health resource cabinets” in its libraries. These cabinets, which are easily accessible to all library visitors, including children, contain a variety of sexual health products and educational materials, all provided free of charge.

The Sacramento Public Library system, in collaboration with Planned Parenthood Mar Monte, launched the cabinets in 12 out of its 28 libraries six weeks ago. These cabinets are stocked with condoms, pregnancy tests, contraceptives, dental dams, lubricants, and informative pamphlets like “How to Talk to Your Child About Sex.” Additionally, QR codes are available to direct people to Planned Parenthood’s sexual health resources online.

Despite efforts to promote sexual health awareness, this initiative has raised concerns among parents’ rights activist groups. They argue that providing explicit content without parental consent or knowledge to minors is inappropriate. Greg Burt, vice president of the California Family Council, expressed his dismay, stating, “I don’t understand why they think kids should be having sex. Nobody believes that, and yet they want to provide sex stuff for people in the library, which is beyond the pale.”

The cabinets are strategically placed throughout the libraries, with some in open areas and others near adult sections. Todd Deck, the community engagement services manager for the Sacramento Public Library, emphasized the importance of removing the stigma surrounding sexual health resources. These cabinets can be found in libraries such as Central, Belle Cooledge, Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven, Southgate, Carmichael, and others.

Deck explained, “Although this resource may not be applicable for everyone, we do want to make it available for the people who do need it.” The library plans to expand the initiative to other locations in the future.

This controversial partnership has sparked a debate about the appropriate role of libraries in providing sexual health resources. While some support the initiative as a way to promote awareness and accessibility, others believe that it crosses boundaries when it comes to minors’ access to explicit content without parental consent.

In conclusion, the Sacramento Public Library system’s collaboration with Planned Parenthood to introduce sexual health resource cabinets in its libraries has stirred up mixed reactions. The debate surrounding the provision of sexual health resources to minors without parental consent continues, highlighting the importance of balancing access to information with age-appropriate content.