Kentucky Branch Librarian Claims
She Was Suspended for Religious Talk
The head librarian at the Pike County (Ky.) Public Library’s Phelps branch claims she was terminated after a co-worker complained about her “talking about the Lord” on the job, the Williamson Daily News reported October 16.
Mabel Dotson said administrative staff notified her of the complaint in early October and told her patrons “would have to call me at home” if they wanted to talk about religion. A week later, Dotson said, county library Director Lou Ella Allen asked her to sign a statement that cited “issues concerning scheduling, miscommunications, intimidating statements, and petty differences.” When Dotson refused, she was told to gather her personal items and turn in her keys.
Allen denied Dotson was suspended because of religious conversations, and pointed out that Dotson hasn’t officially been terminated—that will be up to the library board at its November 5 meeting.
Dotson noted that community members have supported her by circulating petitions and picketing in front of the branch. “I would take my job as librarian back only if I feel it is the Lord’s will,” she said.
Posted October 21, 2002.
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