NEW YORK, New York — Book bans and challenges in U.S. libraries remained near record levels in 2025, with thousands of titles targeted, according to a new report from the American Library Association.
The ALA recorded challenges to 4,235 different works last year, just below the record set in 2023. The most challenged book was “Sold” by Patricia McCormick, a novel addressing sex trafficking. Other frequently targeted titles included “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” “Gender Queer,” and “Looking for Alaska.”
The ALA defines a challenge as an effort to remove or restrict access to a book based on objections. Reported reasons for challenges include LGBTQ+ themes, depictions of sexual violence, and references to substance use.
The report found a significant shift in who is driving these efforts. More than 90% of challenges in 2025 came from organized groups, activists, or government officials, rather than individual parents. States such as Florida, Texas, and Utah have seen increased legislative activity around restricting certain materials in schools and libraries.
The ALA said the actual number of challenges may be higher due to underreporting. Officials noted that coordinated campaigns and widely circulated book lists have contributed to repeated challenges and removals across multiple communities.
The findings were released during National Library Week, highlighting ongoing debates over access to materials in public and school libraries.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
