As guests, protesters and counter-protesters prepare to amass at the Lansdale Public Library on Saturday morning, the Lansdale Borough Police Department has signaled that they are ready for whatever may come.
According to Lansdale Borough Police Chief Michael Trail, there will be an increased police presence both inside the library and the external streets around it. Additionally, areas have been marked on a map for parking and media personnel (see below), though the borough is urging people to use mass transit where available.
Trail stated that there will be no designated area for protests, though he anticipates that the majority will come together organically and post up in the parking lot directly across the street from the library. Additionally, there will be no artificial separation between supporters and protesters.
“People need to remember that this is a children’s event, so we expect everyone to behave accordingly,” said Trail.
Estimates and projections regarding the number of people who are expected to turn out have varied wildly, with some stating upwards of 500 people could show up. The Storytime with Miss Annie event has a max seating capacity of 65 people, and as it stands, police have been informed that roughly 20 protesters are planning to attend. In total, Trail said he expects between 100 and 150 people to show up, though he added that contingencies are in place to preserve safety should the crowd exceed initial expectations.
Though there will be no set area for demonstrations, Trail added that people will be prohibited from amassing in front of the Fairmount Fire Company, located across the street.
“Those guys need to be able to get out quickly in the event of a call, so we will be keeping that area clear,” said Trail.
Story Time with Miss Annie is scheduled for Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at the Lansdale Public Library.
See also:
Mayoral Musings: Storytime With Miss Annie
Lansdale Borough Releases Statement About Drag Queen Story Time
Christian Protesters Take Aim At Drag Queen Story Time At Lansdale Library
Annie Christ: Lansdale's Culture Queen
