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Massachusetts Library Limits LatexThe Bellingham (Mass.) Public Library board adopted a policy May 11 that bans latex balloons and gloves in the library building.The library was facing a lawsuit from area resident Patrick Callahan, whose 9-year-old son Andrew has a severe latex allergy, according to the May 12 Milford Daily News. Callahan asked the library to prohibit latex in February after a children’s program left balloon sculptures on display in the building. “When they refused to institute a policy, we recognized it as discrimination right away,” he said, adding that his son’s school implemented a policy immediately when Andrew enrolled. Library Director Charlotte Rabbitt told the Daily News that the policy was in the works before the library received the litigation papers. “Trustees met a month ago and started instituting the policy not to have latex on the premises. . . . It takes time,” she said. Rabbitt noted that no other public buildings in the state had latex-free policies, and that research had turned up only two comparable measures nationwide, both in Wisconsin. Ed Popielarczyk, a magician who often entertains children at library venues, made and left the balloon sculptures at the library. “It’s selfish of this family,” he said, “because they are denying other kids access to have fun with balloons.” He added that the policy could hurt his career and the careers of other entertainers who use balloons in their performances. Callahan dropped the suit after the trustees adopted the new policy. Posted May 13, 2005. |
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