Public Libraries

Teens signing up for the Books Unbanned program at Brooklyn and Seattle Public Libraries shared their reasons for wanting the library card, while some of their peers discussed the impact of blocked websites, and an expert panel in Pennsylvania discussed the harm caused by restricting access to books.

The report released today examines more than 4,000 book bans in 52 public school districts in 23 states from July to December 2023. 

Emily Drabinski shares the impact of personal attacks and those on libraries across the country; librarians fear new, punitive laws; Alaska school book removal lawsuit goes to federal court; and more in Censorship News.

In Nebraska, a bill that would criminalize librarians did not get enough votes. Meanwhile, in Georgia, educators worry about legislation aimed at ALA funding; and in one Texas county, a citizen review board will now decide what stays on public library shelves.

An oak tree's willingness to be called he or she canceled a district read in Floyd County, VA; themed book displays are banned in Louisiana parish; and more.

Extending Brooklyn Public Library’s Books Unbanned initiative to young kids and parents.

A settlement in the case against Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' law has clarified that library books cannot be removed under the law as long as they aren't part of the curriculum; queer publishers navigate book bans; Ohio district keeps two books on shelves; and more.

In 2023, the number of books targeted for censorship went up 65 percent from the year before, according to American Library Association data released today. The rise was most dramatic in public libraries, which saw a 92 percent increase in challenges.

Read about RuPaul's new online bookstore that has a colorful outreach plan, watch the 60 Minutes segment on book banning in South Carolina, stay up to date on proposed state legislation (the good and the bad), and more in Censorship News.