DougR, there is a world of difference between "Let's see what might be there" and "We want specific information on...." After all, people are supposed to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. And I understand that no warrant is supposed to be issued except with probable cause and the warrant is supported by an oath, and it specifically describes the place to be searched and the people or things to be taken or searched for.

As for terrorism in the late '60s and '70s, the FBI was fishing for "student activists" of the SDS or Weather Underground -- and for those who might have demonstrated against the VN war or against Tricky Dicky.

If anyone doesn't think that what you're reading matters, why then are you reading it?

But I'll give you a hypothetical case: a mayor is up for re-election and it's a close race. She's taking a course in social problems at a local college, on her own time and to increase her knowledge. As part of the course she checks out material on lesbian culture. Her opponent learns that she is reading this stuff (that's a technical librarian-type word). It doesn't matter to him *why* she's reading it -- it's obvious that she is a lesbian instead of the conservative, family-oriented sort her ads proclaim her to be.

If you doubt this sort of thing could happen, don't.

I suggest reading the book "Arsenals of a Democratic Culture." It's an old book, written right after WWII, but gives a terrific overview of the changing views and roles of the public library in society. If you can find it, that is. You may have to get it on interlibary loan.