BELOIT (WKOW) -- Plans for a program called Drag Queen Storytime at the Beloit Public Library has the library responding to public feedback on the event.

The program is planned for Wednesday, June 27, and will feature Cass Marie Domino. a Madison entertainer, reading what the library described in a news release as positive, age-appropriate childrens books, including "10,000 Dresses" and "What's the difference? Being Different is Amazing."

Similar programs have been held at libraries throughout the country, and Beloit decided to plan one after being approached by some people who wanted to see one locally.

Madison is hosting a Drag Queen Storytime at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 9, at the Sequoya Library, 4340 Tokay Blvd.

In the news release, Library Director Nick Dimassis said they understand not everyone likes the programs that they host.

We believe everyone in our community shares an appreciation for openness, acceptance and the opportunity to educate their children about people who are different from them. We also know that values differ and we are grateful to have received a variety of comments from multiple perspectives. Hearing both sides ensures we are reflective of all of our constituents.

"That is one of the reasons we print brochures and advertise our programs -- so that people can gather information and make the best decisions for themselves and their families," Dimassis wrote.

Children are encouraged to dress up however they are comfortable, because organizers say this will be an accepting and loving environment for all.

The library also notes that Domino will dress more moderately than on stage -- appropriate for the age group that will be attending.

"Just like all of our story times a parent or guardian will be required to attend with the child," Dimassis wrote in the news release. "It will be up to the parents to decide whether they feel this is a program they want their child to attend or not."

Dimassis said that anyone with questions can contact him at the library at 608-364-2917.

UPDATE

UPDATE (WKOW) -- It's a storytime that was sure to get mixed reviews and the staff at Beloit Public Library has now been forced to explain why they'll have a drag queen read to children.

"That's to be expected," said Nick Dimassis, the library director, as he began explaining the pushback.

It's the first time the library will host a drag queen when Cass Marie Domino, a Madison entertainer, will read, play and create crafts with the kids who attend the event June 27, 2018.

"It's important for us to be able to reflect all the viewpoints and all the values in our community," said Dimassis as she explained the reasoning for the event.

He and other library staff members have received dozens of calls from those who support the decision to have Domino there and those who don't.

"I think everyone has been very reasonable on this and then have offered different kinds of opinions, feedback and suggestions," Dimassis explained.

There's been so much conversation surrounding the Drag Queen Storytime, it prompted the library to put out a public state to explain.

"We don't think it's anything provocative. It's nothing that is too shocking or anything like that," Dimassis added.

On social media, people are also chiming in.

"This can teach children that not everyone is the same and we need to love and respect each other and embrace differences," one person commented on Facebook.

But others disagree and are against the event.

"Strictly an adults only event. Children do not need this in our libraries," commented another.

The library wants parents to know there's no set agenda. The books that will be read are age appropriate for kids under six years old. One of them is called Disguise-o-saur. It's a book about a dinosaur who plays dress up and puts on costumes ranging from a firefighter's uniform to a ballerina's outfit.

"We want to be transparent and to let parents know exactly what they should be expecting," Dimassis added.

For those who have called with concerns and suggestions, Dimassis said he is working to create events where everyone' viewpoints are honored and respected.

A public library that's trying something for the first time as it shows it will always make a point to serve everyone.

http://www.wkow.com/story/38371271/2018/06/07/beloit-library-responding-to-public-feedback-over-drag-queen-storytime