When the news of Sophia’s employment at the library spreads through town, Mrs. Brady holds a town meeting to remind everyone of the library’s importance: “A library is a sacred place—a place of learning. It should not be considered fair game just because it is staffed by women” (138). Fred adds that the library sits on his property, so he has no problem dealing with any intruder who tries causing trouble again. Mr. Van Cleve takes offense, saying that “coloreds” don’t belong in white libraries. Margery reminds him that Sophia isn’t using the library; she’s working there. The townspeople agree that they enjoy Sophia’s work (stitching, sewing, and cataloging) at the library.

In another bold move, Margery mentions that Mr. Van Cleve employs blacks at his mines, so they can’t be as bad as he’s suggesting. Mr. Van Cleve takes offense, saying that those employed by him are mulatto, not black. Later, Mr. Van Cleve tells Alice that she’s no longer to work at the library. Though he’s insistent, Alice holds her ground and refuses to quit. Mr. Van Cleve tells his son to hit Alice to “sort her out,” but to everyone’s amazement, Bennett suggests that Alice remain at the library so that she can help people.