MONTCLAIR, NJ — One thing is clear after this week’s bomb threat involving a “Drag Story Hour” at the Montclair Public Library, staff say: such efforts are needed more than ever.
A library branch in Montclair was evacuated on Sunday after someone made a bomb threat. The threat was reported by the children’s library supervisor, who got an email that stated “bombs were placed at the following locations: 50 South Fullerton Avenue, 40 South Fullerton Avenue, 185 Bellevue Avenue.”
The Bellevue Avenue Public Library and 40 South Fullerton Avenue were closed at the time of the threat. Meanwhile, 50 South Fullerton Avenue was evacuated.
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After a search of each building, they were rendered safe and secure at 6:06 p.m., authorities said.
The library was hosting a Drag Story Hour reading event at the time of the bomb threat. Police are now investigating the incident as a bias crime. Authorities said anyone with information can contact Det. Pierre Falaise at (973) 509-4717.
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The Montclair Public Library put out a statement on social media after the threat, affirming that it is a “Library for All” and thanking emergency responders for their response:
“We have and will continue to serve the LGBTQIA+ community with programs, literature and resources, not only during Pride Month but all year round. As a library, we counter bias based in hate and ignorance with a commitment to uphold intellectual freedom, diversity and inclusion. The power of libraries rests in their ability to bring people together, provide access to information and resources, offer new experiences and ideas, and celebrate all walks of life. Sunday’s events make it clear that the library’s efforts are needed more than ever. We condemn actions rooted in hate, and we will continue undeterred in our efforts.”
Members of Out Montclair, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving and celebrating LGBTQIA+ people across Northern New Jersey, were among those who rushed to support the library.
“The Montclair Public Library has hosted Drag Story Hour for years,” Out Montclair stated in a news release. “A drag bingo event at the library in October 2023 was targeted by extremists who showed up to intimidate youth and their parents, requiring volunteers and town leaders to ensure attendee safety.”
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The group noted that in June – as the town prepared to celebrate a popular Pride Month festival – a pride flag was stolen from a pole near Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue/South Fullerton Avenue.
In a show of fortitude, Out Montclair and the Township of Montclair re-raised another Progress Pride flag donated by local community leaders on June 24.
The group put out a call for solidarity after this week’s bomb threat in Montclair:
“This latest heinous threat again endangers public safety, most appallingly putting children, their parents, and all library patrons at risk. Out Montclair remains steadfast in our support for our beloved town library, Drag Story Hour, drag artists and all who create events to elevate and celebrate LGBTQIA+ people, youth and families. Our community and our allies are united against the fringe few who are increasingly desperate against the values of diversity and acceptance that keeps all of us safe and contributes to Montclair’s overwhelming success. Drag, and LGBTQIA+ people and our allies, are here to stay.”
Other support for the library – and condemnation for whoever made the bomb threat – has come from:
Assemblywoman Alixon Collazos-Gill – “Over the weekend the Montclair Public Library was the victim of a false bomb threat. It was my understanding that this is directly related to the library hosting a Drag Story Hour. Let me be perfectly clear: regardless of what your opinion is, this is not OK. Hate has no home in Montclair, in New Jersey, or in society. Montclair has always been a welcoming community for all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexuality, and immigration status. I am proud of the community for coming together to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community recently after the pride flag was stolen from the corner of Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue. Thank you again to local, county, and state law enforcement for their swift response to this incident.”
Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie – “I am deeply disturbed by the recent bomb threat at the Montclair Library and the theft of the LGBTQIA+ flag. These hateful acts have no place in any community. Montclair is a town known for its diversity, acceptance, and inclusivity. The theft of the Pride flag, a powerful symbol of equality, is an attack on these values. However, it was inspiring to see the community come together to raise the flag once more, showing resilience and unity. I commend the Montclair Police Department for their swift response and ongoing investigation. It’s crucial that those responsible are held accountable. To the LGBTQIA+ community and allies: | stand with you. Hatred and prejudice will not silence us. Together, we will continue to champion acceptance, equality, and respect for all.”
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin – “The Office of the Attorney General is aware that several public libraries in Montclair were the targets of bomb threats on Sunday afternoon. Local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies are actively investigating this matter, and the investigation remains ongoing. We appreciate the swift response by local law enforcement agencies to the threats. The threats coincided with a ‘Drag Story Hour’ at the library’s main branch, part of a schedule of events to mark Pride Month. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Montclair Police Department at (973) 744-1234. Bias incidents are an affront to our values that honor the rich diversity of cultures, religions, and ideals. My office is committed to protecting the rights of all New Jerseyans to live free from the threat of hate and discrimination. Hate and violence have no place in New Jersey, especially the kind that makes people feel unsafe or threatened for who they are. As this is an ongoing investigation, no additional information can be provided at this time.”
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