Recently Iowa has seen a rise in challenges, concerns, and restrictions with public and school libraries. I had the chance to talk with Sam Helmick, the president of the American Library Association. In the conversation, we talked about the differences between a book ban, reconsideration, and challenge. We also talked about a tiered access card system. Sam also speaks about their experience with books growing up.
Helmick also mentions a survey that was conducted regarding book bans and abridgment of books.
According to the American Library Association, the Library Bill of Rights was first drafted by library director Forrest Spaulding in 1938. The bill was designed to speak out against the “growing intolerance, suppression of free speech, and censorship affecting the rights of minorities and individuals.”
They brought up ”Unite Against Book Bans,” which is an initiative launched by the ALA to empower readers everywhere to stand up against censorship. According to the website, the ALA reported 1,247 attempts to censor library books and resources in 2023 nationally. This is what Helmick had to say about a survey conducted for the ALA and its partners.
