Growing restrictions on books lead Southern California libraries to implement a resolution
In the evolving landscape of book censorship, the Long Beach Public Library in California has taken a significant step towards upholding intellectual freedom by joining the Books Unbanned project. This initiative, initially launched by the Brooklyn Public Library, aims to counteract censorship and promote access to diverse literature.
The Rise of Book Challenges
The 2023-2024 school year saw a concerning increase in book challenges and bans across the United States, with 10,046 instances reported[1]. Works related to race, gender, and LGBTQ+ identities were often targeted[2]. Notable examples include "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" and "All Boys Aren’t Blue," which faced challenges for their LGBTQIA+ content and explicit material[3][4].
Long Beach's Stand Against Censorship
In response to this surge, the Long Beach Public Library has taken a proactive approach. The library system, which uses Libby for its online selection of books, recently launched a campaign to fund the purchase of more e-books and audiobooks[5]. This expansion of the library's digital collection aims to provide a broader and more diverse selection of books to its readers.
The Long Beach Public Library joined Books Unbanned in late 2024[6]. This partnership gives readers ages 13 to 26 access to a free e-card, allowing them to browse the library's catalog of e-books and audiobooks without parental permission[7]. This initiative is part of a larger trend in Southern California public libraries, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego, providing access to online library cards to combat book censorship[8].
Challenged Titles in Long Beach
Two books, "A Queer and Pleasant Danger" and "The De-Textbook," have been challenged in the Long Beach Public Library system[9]. In the past, "Fallen Angels" by Walter Dean Myers was also challenged, earning a spot on the American Library Assn.'s Top 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books report[10].
Despite these challenges, the Long Beach Public Library system has faced only three book challenges in the last 17 years[11]. This relatively low number underscores the library's commitment to maintaining a diverse and inclusive collection.
Ongoing Resistance Efforts
Resistance against book censorship is not limited to individual libraries. Organizations and communities are actively working against censorship, advocating for the retention of challenged books in libraries and schools[4]. The American Library Association's Banned Books Week, themed "Censorship is So 1984--Read for Your Rights!" in 2025, aims to celebrate and promote intellectual freedom[12].
Legal challenges and vocal oppositions have also been observed. For instance, in York County, South Carolina, a decision to ban trans and gender-themed books was tabled due to vocal opposition[1].
However, some parents and organizations continue to argue that early access to certain content can confuse children[13]. Groups like Moms for Liberty, Moms for America, and Parents Defending Education Action, considered extremist by the Southern Poverty Law Center in 2022[14], have been vocal in their opposition to certain books.
In conclusion, the Long Beach Public Library's partnership with Books Unbanned is a significant step in the ongoing fight against book censorship. While the specific impact of Books Unbanned may vary, the broader movement involves significant community engagement, legal challenges, and advocacy efforts to protect intellectual freedom and diverse voices in literature.
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