Teens signing up for the Books Unbanned program at Brooklyn and Seattle Public Libraries shared their reasons for wanting the library card, while some of their peers discussed the impact of blocked websites, and an expert panel in Pennsylvania discussed the harm caused by restricting access to books.

The report released today examines more than 4,000 book bans in 52 public school districts in 23 states from July to December 2023. 

On Take Actions for Library Day, the American Library Association announced its "Reader. Voter. Ready." campaign to increase library advocacy and civic engagement in advance of the November 5 elections.

Teamwork, competition, and the glory of team sports drive these graphic novel stories for elementary through high school readers.

Emily Drabinski shares the impact of personal attacks and those on libraries across the country; librarians fear new, punitive laws; Alaska school book removal lawsuit goes to federal court; and more in Censorship News.

Defending the Canon, reviews of classic lit by SLJ and NCTE—and James Patterson—grabbed readers' attention this week.

Jessie Storrs and Pia Alliende, both School Librarian of the Year finalists; "Jewish joy"; and Caldecott winner Big inspired comments.  

In Nebraska, a bill that would criminalize librarians did not get enough votes. Meanwhile, in Georgia, educators worry about legislation aimed at ALA funding; and in one Texas county, a citizen review board will now decide what stays on public library shelves.

These books nurture literacy, empathy, and understanding.