Andrew Foster, the former director of the Autauga-Prattville Library, is seeking reinstatement to his position.
Foster, who was fired on March 14, has requested apologies, retractions, and corrections for the “defamatory statements” made by library board chair Ray Boles and board attorney Laura Clark. Letters from Foster’s attorney were sent to Boles and Clark on Thursday.
After a week of turmoil at the local library system, legal actions have been taken. The library board has provided different justifications for firing Foster. Initially, they claimed that he disclosed confidential information to the press and committed an unspecified “violation of criminal law.”
Boles later provided AL.com with multiple explanations, criticizing Foster’s actions for complying with an open records request and recording conversations. Boles initially mentioned a “criminal investigation” concerning the issue but later clarified that no report had been filed with the local police.
Foster’s attorney pointed out the discrepancies and expressed concern over the damage it has caused to his client’s reputation.
Foster alleges that his termination was accompanied by “misleading and damaging remarks” and inaccurate legal guidance from Boles and Clark. He further asserts that the process of dismissing him was mishandled in violation of the Alabama Open Meetings Act.
According to the documents, Foster has never tried to obstruct or hinder the Board’s actions in removing or segregating controversial books from the library. He has simply sought clarification from the board regarding its intentions to either remove or relocate books. This clarification is in response to a policy implemented in February, which states that the library will not acquire any materials advertised for consumers aged 17 and under that contain content related to obscenity, sexual conduct, sexual intercourse, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender discordance.
The attorney revealed documents that contain email exchanges between Foster, Boles, and Clark discussing books that feature LGBTQ themes or explicit content.
AL.com also listened to recordings, which were given by Foster’s attorney, that provide details of conversations between Boles and Foster. These conversations were about the 113 books that Boles gave to Foster for review and to keep in his office. The purpose was for the board to decide what should be done with them. It is worth noting that some of the books had limited LGBTQ connections and contained little to no sexually explicit content.
During a conversation on February 26, Boles expressed concern about the portrayal of sex and sexuality in books. He specifically mentioned that if a book depicts two moms, it doesn’t worry him. However, he emphasized the need for a discussion if the book includes a scene where two dads are shown kissing.
Foster informed Boles on March 4 that it would be more transparent to have the entire board discuss the list. Boles suggested that moving the items to the adult section would be the most accessible option for people.
During their conversation, Boles inquired about Foster’s recording of conversations. Foster clarified that Alabama operates under one-party consent laws. Boles then requested Foster to inform others about any recordings as a matter of respect.
Foster received mixed messages from the board, as stated in the demand letter. Boles mentioned moving books, while Clark suggested removing them.
Boles explained to Foster in a recorded conversation on March 8 that they need to thoroughly review and determine which policies align with their goals, while ensuring they don’t come across as attacking the LBGT community.
Foster received a public records request from a reporter, and in response, Clark sent an email asserting that email communication is “privileged and confidential.”
In Alabama, the open records law allows for the sharing of attorney-client information. The records keeper has the discretion to share privileged information if deemed necessary.
In an interview with AL.com, Foster expressed that he sees this as a “cathartic moment” for himself. However, he does not hold any expectations of being reinstated in his previous position.
Foster expressed his intention to have discussions with his legal counsel regarding the actions and precautions he can take to ensure his personal protection if he is reinstated.
Foster is hopeful that this action will ensure that the board takes responsibility for their previous statements. However, he acknowledges that the process of recovering from this situation will be a lengthy one.
“I really despise the fact that this not only affects the library, but also the people of Prattville and Autauga County,” Foster expressed his frustration.
Foster emphasizes that even though librarians may appear quiet and peaceful, they should not be underestimated or seen as easy targets. On the contrary, they are individuals who fight back using the powerful tools of their trade – information and the truth.
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