public libraries

PEN America has published its Banned Books List for 2026, documenting titles removed or restricted in schools and libraries. The annual inventory has become a key reference in the ongoing debate over book challenges in the United States, with free speech advocates and parents' groups continuing to clash over what material should be accessible to young readers.

The Camden County Board of Commissioners in New Jersey has issued a formal recognition of Banned Books Week within the Camden County Library System. The move highlights ongoing national attention to book challenges and censorship in public libraries, with local officials affirming access to a wide range of materials for county residents.

A call is growing to preserve E-Rate, the US program that helps schools and libraries afford internet access, with supporters urging action to keep connectivity affordable for students and communities. Backers are encouraging people to make calls in support of the program, arguing that funding cuts would hurt access to affordable internet.

Florida has ranked second in the nation for the removal of books from school libraries, behind only Texas. The figures add to ongoing debate over book challenges and content restrictions in public schools, with critics arguing the removals limit students' access to literature and supporters saying they protect children from inappropriate material.

Library Ideas has announced that Pure Flix's movie and TV streaming service will be made available to public libraries, extending the faith-and-family content platform beyond home subscriptions. Under the arrangement, library patrons would gain access to Pure Flix titles through their local library's digital offerings. The move reflects a broader trend of libraries expanding into streaming media for their members.

A new report documents the extent of book bans in public schools across the United States, cataloguing titles and districts where books have been removed or restricted. The findings feed into an ongoing national debate over library content, parental rights and free expression, with school boards and state lawmakers facing continued pressure from both supporters and opponents of the removals.

PEN America, the free expression organisation, is drawing attention to the growing practice of banning books from school libraries and classrooms. The group has repeatedly warned that such removals, often targeting titles dealing with race, gender and sexuality, restrict students' access to ideas. The renewed spotlight keeps pressure on school districts and lawmakers debating censorship.

Billings Public Library has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over book bans as National Banned Books Week begins. The Montana library is drawing attention amid national disputes over removing titles from shelves, with communities weighing concerns about content against calls to protect access to books. The annual week highlights challenged titles and debates over censorship in libraries and schools.

Morrison House has relaunched its banned book speakeasy under a new name, "The Restricted Collection." The venue, known for offering readers access to books that have been challenged or banned, is rebranding the concept with the new title. The relaunch comes amid ongoing public debate about book bans and censorship in libraries and schools.

Rockford Public Library has shared a list of banned books to encourage teenagers to read them. The move positions the library as part of ongoing national debates over book challenges and censorship in schools and libraries. By highlighting frequently banned titles, the library hopes to spark curiosity among young readers and defend access to contested literature.

The Wichita Public Library is celebrating Banned Book Week, joining libraries across the United States in highlighting titles that have been challenged or removed from shelves. The annual observance draws attention to censorship debates and encourages readers to explore frequently banned works.