Writers’ boycott of event a bad example for students

I read with disappointment the decision of several members of the literary community here to boycott any activity linked to the National Library Board (NLB) in protest against its decision to remove and dispose of three controversial children’s book titles (“S’pore writers not happy over NLB controversy”, online, July 11).

Are the writers simply disagreeing with the NLB’s disposal process for books taken out of circulation, or do they feel that unsupervised children should be exposed to controversial topics and left to develop their own conclusions on such matters?

I hope they hold the view that the NLB has a responsibility to look out for children who do not have the privilege of having learned adults supervise what they read.

Whatever the reason, their tit-for-tat reaction appears childish and does not reflect the maturity found in their writings. These writers through their works hope to promote discourse, but ironically, it is seemingly lacking in their engagement with the NLB.

It also speaks volumes of the relationship (or lack of) with the NLB. Surely the years of support and partnership should amount to more than just this? Even if our writers feel that the NLB can do better, it is disappointing to see a lack of graciousness in the manner of their response.

One of the events affected by the boycott is the National Schools Literature Festival. It would be a pity if the students attending the event interpret the boycott to be a response they should emulate when faced with an opinion or decision they disagree with, instead of engaging in constructive feedback or discussion on how to come to a compromise, and simply agreeing to disagree.

As we approach Singapore’s fiftieth year of independence, I hope we can revive the gotong royong spirit of our founding fathers and continue to work together to build a better home. In spite of diversity, we can still engage in more cooperation and less division.