Book bans surge as censorship sweeps US schools
Book bans in US schools nearly tripled last year, with over 10,000 titles censored, according to PEN America.
The spike coincides with the implementation of new censorship laws in states like Iowa and Florida, driving thousands of bans.
In Iowa, a law banning materials deemed inappropriate for K-12 students has led to widespread censorship.
Florida’s legislation also targets books addressing sexual content.
PEN highlights the emergence of extreme measures, such as Utah’s “No Read List,” which could result in statewide bans if multiple districts challenge a title.
Although 66% of Americans disapprove of book banning, Republican-led legislatures continue to push for more restrictive laws.
Advocates warn that the future of diverse literary access hangs in the balance.