Public input took center stage during a regular meeting in Nogales on July 2, 2025. Community members voiced strong opinions about the appointment of Marederlin to the Library Committee. Concerns were raised regarding the alignment of library content with community values.

Local resident Marco Antonio Flores expressed appreciation for Darling’s contributions, especially her work on renovating county dorms. However, he also voiced reservations about her ties to the Democratic Party and perceived support for LGBTQ issues, suggesting that it could influence library policies. “If that line is even considered crossing… I assure you that members of various Christian fellowships will pack this room,” he cautioned, emphasizing the potential for public protests against ideological shifts within library programming.

Fred Wilner, another resident and school teacher, echoed these sentiments, raising concerns about the library’s status as a neutral space. He criticized the presence of books discussing gender identity, claiming they don’t reflect the community’s diverse values. “It used to be a safe place, but in many conditions, it is no longer a safe place,” he stated, calling for a review of library materials that align with community standards.

This discussion underscored the widening cultural and ideological divide in Nogales, particularly regarding education and children’s resources. As the city council considers Darling’s appointment, the community’s response indicates that the outcome may have significant implications for the future direction of libraries and their influence on local values.