"If libraries can provide evidence that broad classes of books don't pose a risk of harm to the public health, then they can be granted an exemption from the testing requirements. If they can't prove that and if the books actually do pose a safety problem, then they shouldn't be sent home with kids."
It doesn't seem likely that libraries would be able to provide this "evidence." Performing a study to determine such a thing would likely be costly and defeat the point of trying to get out of the testing in the first place. But even if they can't, that doesn't mean that their books pose a safety problem! I don't think it's fair to place the burden of proof on the libraries.
But speaking of books that may "pose a risk of harm to the public health," are public library books sanitary? Are they ever cleaned or sanitized? How would you sanitize a book? I've never really thought about this before, but after browsing the children's section extensively last week, I felt a strong urge to wash my hands. I would certainly never think twice about letting my future little ones explore the children's section of the library, but I will be vigilant about hand-washing.
