In 2023, the American Library Association (ALA) documented a significant increase in the number of unique book titles targeted for censorship in public libraries and schools. The figure rose to 4,240 from 2,571 in 2022, marking a 65% spike and the highest number ever recorded by the ALA.
According to an ALA press release, the association's Office for Intellectual Freedom reported 1,247 demands to censor library books, materials, and resources last year. It was noted that efforts by pressure groups targeting public libraries increased by 92% compared to 2022 and by 11% for school libraries. Furthermore, the ALA stated that a single demand from a pressure group often encompassed dozens or hundreds of titles, which may have contributed to the surge in 2023.
The same press release revealed that attempts were made to censor more than 100 titles in 17 states. Pressure groups primarily targeted titles related to LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities - books that represent their voices and lived experiences. These constituted approximately 47% of all targeted titles in 2023.
"Every challenge to a library book is an attack on our freedom to read. The books being targeted again focus on LGBTQ+ and people of color. Our communities and our country are stronger because of diversity. Libraries that reflect their communities' diversity promote learning and empathy that some people want to hide or eliminate," said Emily Drabinski, President of ALA.
The ALA press release also indicated that next month will see the release of its list of the top ten most challenged books in the United States.
Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom said: "The reports from librarians and educators in the field make it clear that organized campaigns to ban books aren’t over, and we must all stand together to preserve our right to choose what we read." She further stated that "Each demand to ban a book is a demand to deny each person’s constitutionally protected right to choose and read books that raise important issues and lift up the voices of those who are often silenced."
