The American Library Association (ALA) released its latest report, revealing a 65 percent increase in the number of titles targeted for censorship in 2023 compared to the previous year.

The report highlighted a trend in public libraries, which saw a 92 percent surge in the number of targeted titles, while school libraries experienced an 11 percent increase. Data collected by ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom identified several key trends, including demands to censor titles representing LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, accounting for 47 percent of all targeted titles. Attempts to censor more than 100 titles were recorded in 17 states across the country.

Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, emphasized the importance of defending the right to choose what we read and urged unity in preserving civil liberties. ALA President Emily Drabinski echoed this sentiment, highlighting the vital role of libraries in promoting diversity and empathy. In response to the surge in book challenges, ALA launched Unite Against Book Bans, a national initiative empowering readers to combat censorship, which will celebrate its second anniversary during National Library Week. As ALA prepares to unveil its list of the top 10 most challenged books in the U.S. on Right to Read Day of National Library Week, the organization remains committed to defending intellectual freedom and access to information.