This is an invitation notifying Marshalltown Public Library patrons and especially MPL board members of the opportunity to read a pertinent, timely and popular newspaper and magazine that a number of patrons wish to see added to the periodical shelf at no expense to the library.

12 examples of both will be available for the public to read if they choose in MPL Study Room #1 between 4:00 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. Tuesday 9/19/23 prior to the Sept. board meeting at 5 p.m. in room AB.

The desired 100-year-old magazine, “The American Rifleman,” has been labeled a niche magazine and therefore not suitable in our public library. Casual observation of the periodical shelf will reveal niche publications available now.

The desired newspaper, “The Epoch Times,” printed in 7 languages and subscribed to by millions in 30 countries, is criticized for non-existent religious proselytizing and therefore not suitable for our public library. That reasoning falls apart because fact is the Holy Bible, Koran, and Torah are available now in our public library.

Please examine both, stay for the board meeting, and sign in before 4:55 to use your 180 second comment time to encourage the board to offer additional material to patrons at no cost.

Study Room #1 has an occupancy of 10 so allow time for others to read.

In deference to fellow patrons, decorum is expected.