2024 Book Bans Recap

By Jane Laurey

In 2024, book banning reached unprecedented extremes in both schools and libraries, silencing many diverse voices. While the headlines often focus on bans in classrooms, a significant number of books have also been removed from public libraries, reflecting a larger effort to restrict access to literature outside of just schools. 

This year saw an immense number of books banned across the United States, with particular focus on works that focus on ideas like racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights. According to the American Library Association (ALA), over 1000 books were challenged in the first half of 2024. Among the most frequently banned titles were Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe, The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, and Stamped by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. These books, all focusing on the experiences of marginalized communities, were targeted for their alleged "controversial" or “mature” content.
One of the most troubling aspects of these bans is their disproportionate effect on young readers, particularly in areas like Texas and Florida. Censorship in the context of classrooms does not just limit access to reading materials—it limits the ability of young people to learn about those different from them. 

Efforts to fight book bans have been growing, with organizations like the American Library Association (ALA) and the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) leading the way. Activists also organize events like Banned Books Week to raise awareness, and communities are pushing back through protests, petitions, and social media campaigns. Our work, however, is far from over and we must continue to fight for literary access in 2025.