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American Library Association reports that despite slowing down, book censorship still remains high in 2024.


Two reports released on Monday present conflicting but noteworthy information on the ongoing issue of book removals and challenges in schools, stores, and libraries. The American Library Association reported a decrease in complaints about books in 2024, but PEN America noted a significant increase in books being removed from school shelves in the previous year, particularly in Florida and Iowa where laws restricting book content have been enacted.

Despite the ALA’s report showing a slight decrease in challenges in the first eight months of 2024, there were still 414 reported attempts to censor library materials. Deborah Caldwell-Stone from the ALA highlighted that challenges to books by marginalized groups, including people of color and LGBTQ individuals, persist.

While the ALA credits anti-censorship activism and legal victories for the decline in challenges, PEN America emphasizes that any restriction on access to books is a form of censorship. Both organizations focus on books with racial or LGBTQ themes being targeted. Recent examples include a Florida school district returning banned books related to race and LGBTQ issues following a settlement with authors, parents, and students.

Overall, the two organizations differ in their definitions of bans and how they track book removals and challenges. Banned Books Week, supported by various literary organizations, is an annual event dedicated to highlighting banned works and the importance of free expression. Despite recent advancements, the fight against censorship in literature remains ongoing, especially concerning books that amplify marginalized voices.

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