What does "Book Banning" in the U.S. really mean?

In today's day and age whether you're a reader, educator, student, parent, or average Joe in the United States you've probably heard the term "book ban." But what exactly does that mean? After all, many of the novels that are considered "banned" are still available for purchase at the local bookstore, Target, or where ever you get your books. This is because, as of now—though this may not always be the case—book bans in the U.S. primarily impact schools and public libraries, not private retailers.

When a book is banned, it typically means it has been removed from school curriculums, classroom libraries, or public library shelves. However, the specifics of how and why a book is banned vary greatly from state to state and even district to district.

For example, in Florida, recent laws have made it easier for parents to challenge and remove books from school libraries, particularly those addressing race, LGBTQ+ identities, or themes some consider "controversial." In contrast, states like California have passed legislation protecting access to books, preventing widespread removals. This is why classics like Fahrenheit 451 and The Handmaid’s Tale may still be available at your local Barnes & Noble but are no longer found in certain school libraries.

Who Decides What Gets Banned?

Book bans often originate from school boards, state legislatures, or even individual parent complaints. Some books are temporarily removed for review, while others are permanently banned from curricula and libraries. The process can be highly localized—what’s banned in one county might be available in the next town over. According to PEN America, an organization that tracks book bans, over 3,300 book bans were recorded in U.S. public schools between July 2022 and June 2023, with Texas, Florida, Missouri, Utah, and South Carolina leading the list. Most of these bans were driven by concerns over race, gender identity, sexual content, or political themes (especially those that are considered anti-America or unpatriotic). Essentially the more books explores marginalized identities or challenges traditional viewpoints the most likely it is to be given the "ban" label.

And book bans don't just affect students—they impact teachers, librarians, and entire communities. Censorship limits access to diverse perspectives and suppresses discussions about real-world issues. Studies show that exposure to a wide range of literature improves critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness. Moreover, removing books from school libraries disproportionately affects students who may not have access to bookstores or digital alternatives at home. In some areas, community-led efforts—like banned book clubs or independent libraries—have stepped up to ensure readers can still access diverse stories.

If you're concerned about book bans in your area, here are a few ways you can stay informed and take action:

• Check your local library or school district's policies to see what books have been challenged.

• Support independent bookstores that stock banned books.

• Most importantly: Read banned books and discuss them!!!!

Censorship is nothing new, but in today's climate, the fight for intellectual freedom is more important than ever. Whether you agree with certain books or not, having the choice to read them should be up to individuals—not politicians or school boards.