In this book-heavy episode, the podcast hosts discuss the relevance of Banned Books Week, the changing nature of libraries, challenges faced by libraries as safe spaces, the controversial message of 'The Giving Tree', and nuanced perspectives on the decline of the nuclear family.
The podcast discusses the concept of banned books and the role of libraries in promoting literature.
The hosts explore the controversy surrounding the use of the term 'you guys' and discuss alternative greetings.
The hosts have differing views on Shel Silverstein's 'The Giving Tree' and discuss the varying interpretations of the book.
Deep dives
The Debate Over Banned Books
The podcast discusses the concept of banned books, exploring the ideas of censorship and promoting literature. The hosts mention the annual Banned Books Week and how it can actually invite discussions on whether certain books should be banned. They also delve into the role of libraries and the challenges faced by librarians in meeting the needs of their communities. The conversation touches on the rise of activist librarians and the impact of social justice sensibilities in the library world. The hosts also share personal experiences and opinions on book banning and censorship.
The Language of Greetings
The podcast episode briefly touches on the controversy surrounding the use of the term 'you guys' as a potentially non-inclusive greeting. The hosts discuss alternative greetings such as 'y'all' or 'folks' and share their perspectives on the matter. They express disdain for the term 'you people' and the use of 'folks' in certain contexts. The conversation also reflects on the evolving language and generational shifts in professional and personal contexts.
The Giving Tree's Critique
The hosts have differing views on Shel Silverstein's children's book, 'The Giving Tree'. One host finds the book profound and beautiful, depicting the sacrificial nature of parenthood. The other host finds the book problematic, seeing it as a depiction of an unhealthy dynamic where one person continually takes from another until there is nothing left. They discuss how interpretations of the book can vary and relate their own experiences with parenthood and the concept of giving endlessly.
The Decline of Libraries and the Rise of Online Access
The podcast explores the decline of libraries as a result of the availability of online information and the push-pull factors responsible for this decline. With the convenience of high-speed internet, libraries no longer serve as the primary source of information. Furthermore, the emergence of library science master's degrees has created a saturated job market with low pay opportunities. However, activists within the library science field are drawn to the profession, embracing the intersection of theoretical concepts and real-world issues, such as the opioid crisis and banned books.
The Disappearing Public Space and the Impact of Technology
The podcast delves into the decline of public spaces, including libraries, due to the influence of two opposing forces. The first force is the challenges faced in public spaces, including dealing with homelessness and activist librarians. The second force is the allure of the internet, which offers convenience and access to a wide array of resources. The internet's appeal lies in avoiding the difficulties associated with physical spaces, such as parking and mall crowds. The trend of cocooning at home and the prevalence of online shopping contribute to the fading importance of physical spaces.
This very book-heavy episode, the girls/women discuss the relevance of Banned Books Week since no one really reads and libraries are essentially homeless masturbation zones. Meghan shares her distaste for the morally-dubious lessons of The Giving Tree (the Shel Silverstein classic), but Sarah defends it as a necessary parenthood redpill.
Finally, they discuss a problematic listener comment about single parenthood and the black community.
