The removal of books from library shelves has evolved beyond local or individual objections, according to a recent report by the American Library Association (ALA). The newly released “State of American Libraries Report” reveals that over 70% of attempts to ban specific titles are initiated by organized groups and elected officials, while only 16% originate from parents. Frequently criticized books include Maia Kobabe’s “Gender Queer” and Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye,” featured on platforms like ratedbooks.org and lists by groups such as Moms for Liberty.
Many challenges to books can be traced back to lists circulated by Moms for Liberty and similar organizations. The ALA’s annual report unveils the 10 most “challenged books” of 2024, led by George M. Johnson’s “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” and includes “Gender Queer,” “The Bluest Eye,” Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” and John Green’s “Looking for Alaska.” Most titles challenged have LGBTQ+ themes, which aligns with a persistent trend. Additional objections include content related to drug addiction, slavery, and sexual abuse, as seen in Ellen Hopkins’ “Crank” and Patricia McCormick’s “Sold.”
The ALA defines a challenge as a formal, written complaint submitted to a library or school requesting the removal of materials due to content or perceived inappropriateness. The association, which gathers censorship data from media reports and librarians, suspects that actual challenge numbers exceed those reported in annual studies.
This report arrives during a critical period for libraries, as the Trump administration enacts drastic budget cuts at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, leading to the cancellation of state library grants. Although bans have surged in recent years, with several states such as Texas, Florida, Iowa, and Utah enacting laws limiting school library acquisitions, the ALA reports a notable decrease in challenges in 2024. Attempts dropped to 821, compared to 1,247 the previous year, yet the figure remains significantly higher than pre-2021 levels.
Despite the decline, concerns about censorship persist. Libraries are increasingly cautious, often avoiding stocking controversial or potentially prohibited books. Librarians face the risk of legal repercussions, and many operate under these pressures, as illustrated by a Texas librarian’s uncertainty about including a political book in the collection.
The Bottom Line
- The rise in organized challenges to library books can impact readers’ access to diverse literature and ideas, potentially limiting exposure to various cultural and social themes.
- Increased censorship efforts may influence library programming and acquisitions, affecting community engagement and the role of libraries as educational resources.
- Budget cuts to library services can reduce access to free educational and cultural materials, impacting learning opportunities, particularly in underfunded areas.
- Authors and publishers facing challenges may experience changes in readership and book sales, affecting the literary market and potentially stifling creative expression.
- Librarians may encounter heightened pressure to conform to restrictive policies, influencing their professional autonomy and decision-making in curating collections.