U.S. Book Challenges Update: August 9 Edition
Our latest report on book bans happening in the U.S. and efforts to combat them includes news from Utah, which recently banned 13 books from school libraries across the state.
School District Bans Book About Book Banning
The school district of Indian River County, Florida, voted in May to remove Alan Gratz’s 2017 novel, presciently titled “Ban This Book,” from its shelves, overruling its own review committee which had recommended that the district retain the book. “Ban This Book” follows a fictional fourth grader who tries to check out her favorite book from her school library only to find it’s been removed due to a ban. She rebels by starting a secret banned-book library.
‘How I Library’ Episode Six: Paula Poundstone
In episode six of the “How I Library” podcast, I Love Libraries editor and show host Phil Morehart speaks with comedian Paula Poundstone.
Poundstone is an iconic standup comic, a panelist on NPR’s news quiz show, “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me,” the host of the podcast, “Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone,” and an actor in numerous TV shows and films. She’s also a longtime supporter of libraries.
Teen Writers Explore the Importance of the Freedom to Read
The New York Public Library has announced the 21 winners of its National Teen Writing Contest, which asked teens across the country, “Why is the freedom to read important to you?” The contest, which ran from October to December last year, is part of NYPL’s Books for All campaign that celebrates and raises awareness about the freedom to read in response to the alarming rise in book bans and challenges around the country.
U.S. Book Challenges Update: May 31 Edition
Libraries and schools across the country are experiencing unprecedented levels of attempts to ban or remove books from their shelves. I Love Libraries will continue to raise awareness by highlighting attempts to censor library materials, as well as efforts by librarians, parents, students, and concerned citizens to push back against them. This report includes news from Minnesota, Tennessee, Texas, and Idaho.
‘The Kite Runner’ Next Up for ALA/NBC Banned Book Club
For AAPI Heritage Month, the American Library Association/NBC Banned Book Club will discuss Khaled Hosseini’s acclaimed novel, “The Kite Runner.” Hosseini’s book has faced numerous bans and challenges since its release, rooted in Islamophobia and claims that it promotes sexual violence and terrorism.
‘How I Library’ Episode Four: Jason Reynolds
In episode four of the “How I Library” podcast, I Love Libraries editor and show host Phil Morehart speaks with #1 New York Times-bestselling author Jason Reynolds. They discuss writing for young readers, the fun and challenges of working in the superhero world, book bans, library memories, music, and more.
Pop Culture, Comics, and Book Ban Conversations at C2E2
The Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) rolled through the Windy City April 26-28, bringing with it thousands of fans and exhibitors of everything pop culture—from comics books to role-playing and video games to movies and beyond. Given the literary underpinnings of almost every bit of media showcased at C2E2, it’s no surprise that book bans and libraries would be represented.
U.S. Book Challenges Update: May 10 Edition
Libraries and schools across the country are experiencing unprecedented levels of attempts to ban or remove books from their shelves. I Love Libraries will continue to raise awareness by highlighting attempts to censor library materials, as well as efforts by librarians, parents, students, and concerned citizens to push back against them. This report includes news from Colorado, Utah, Florida, and a look at state efforts to ban book bans.
John Oliver Says Libraries Are ‘Another Front in the Ongoing Culture War’
On the May 5 episode of “Last Week Tonight,” host John Oliver defended public libraries, stating they’ve become another front in the ongoing culture war as many experience attacks on their funding, staff, and collections.
