Book banning and restrictions in school libraries have been a hotly debated topic in recent years. However, new research from the Knight Foundation in partnership with Langer Research Associates sheds light on the fact that most Americans disagree with banning and restricting access to books in school libraries. The study, conducted in February and March 2024, surveyed a nationally-representative pool of 4,000 adults, spanning various political affiliations and beliefs.
The results of the study revealed that six out of ten Americans feel well-informed about the debate over books in schools, with a similar number stating that it is an issue that is important to them. Interestingly, only a small percentage of respondents reported engaging in book restriction efforts locally, indicating that it is a minority of individuals driving the rise in book bans nationwide.
Parents overwhelmingly trust school librarians and believe that they are well-suited to select age- and content-appropriate material for students. In fact, school librarians were ranked among the top five most trustworthy professionals, highlighting the crucial role they play in providing access to diverse and educational resources for students.
While concerns about book appropriateness exist among adults, the study found that the majority of children select, borrow, and read books that their parents deem appropriate. Additionally, the study revealed that book restrictions are more popular among conservatives, particularly those who identify as evangelical and republican. On the other hand, book restrictions are least popular among liberals, democrats, and LGBTQ+ individuals, with many opposing restrictions due to concerns about student rights to free expression.
The study also highlighted the importance of teachers and librarians in making decisions about materials available to students, with adults believing that they are better positioned to do so than state government and community members without children. While adults support the right to challenge material, they also believe that book bans and restrictions are not the solution to addressing concerns about book appropriateness.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes that the so-called „culture war“ over books in school and public libraries is not a widespread sentiment among American adults. Most parents trust school librarians and educators to make informed decisions about the materials available to students, and they recognize the importance of providing access to diverse and educational resources. As the research shows, book banning remains unpopular, and the majority of adults do not support restricting access to books in school libraries.