A sharp rise in book bans across U.S. schools has reached unprecedented levels, with nearly 12,000 titles removed or restricted in the past year, according to a new report by PEN America. The organization’s analysis highlights a growing trend of censorship in educational settings, driven by challenges from parents, local officials, and district policies targeting books on race, LGBTQ+ themes, and other sensitive subjects. The findings underscore mounting concerns over academic freedom and access to diverse perspectives in classrooms. Educators and advocacy groups warn that such restrictions could limit students’ exposure to critical discussions in literature.
PEN America: Nearly 12,000 school book bans in a year, a record high FOX21 News Colorado
