Memphis, TN, October 11, 2025
News Summary
In a significant shift, the Memphis Public Libraries have transitioned from the traditional Banned Books Week to a new initiative called Freedom to Read Week, taking place from October 5 to 11. This change was implemented to address political pressures and promote the right to read freely, with library staff now required to obtain pre-approval for book displays. Amid increasing attempts to censor library materials, highlights from the American Library Association show a concerning rise in challenges to access books, particularly those with LGBTQ+ themes and sexual content.
MEMPHIS โ The Memphis Public Libraries have dismantled their banned book displays in favor of a new initiative called Freedom to Read Week, which runs from October 5 to 11. This change was implemented at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library on October 6, with other branches quickly following suit to remove previously displayed banned books.
As part of a new protocol, library employees were instructed as of October 9 to obtain pre-approval for all book displays and library signs. This shift comes amid political pressure surrounding the selection of reading materials within library systems and schools.
The American Library Association (ALA), which celebrated Banned Books Week during this same timeframe, highlights the importance of advocating for the right to read freely. ALA reported that in 2024, there were 821 attempts to censor library materials, leading to 2,452 banned books across the U.S. The rise in censorship is significant, with 1,247 attempts recorded in 2023, indicating a notable increase in challenges to library materials.
Many of these challenges emerge from efforts to restrict children’s access to books that contain sexual content or LGBTQ+ themes. In 2024, four of the ten most-banned books were notably targeted due to their LGBTQ+ themes, with all ten facing accusations of being sexually explicit.
The trend of censorship continues to grow across U.S. schools. PEN America documented 3,362 instances of book bans during the 2022-23 academic year, which reflects a 33% increase from the previous year. In Tennessee, legislation passed in 2021 and 2022 restricts discussions about racism and biases in schools. This allows authorities to override local school boards regarding library materials, putting additional pressure on local educators and librarians.
In response to this political scrutiny, local school districts like Memphis-Shelby County Schools have established adoption committees for selecting textbooks that comply with state guidelines to ensure minimal controversy. Teachers face additional restrictions as they must seek approval for additional readings and materials outside the prescribed curriculum.
In efforts to minimize misunderstandings and backlash, schools are placing significant emphasis on communicating with parents regarding reading selections. Educators are striving to strike a balance between state standards and engaging reading materials, promoting diversity in their curriculum while maintaining transparency with parents to foster a collaborative atmosphere around curriculum development.
Many teachers employ creative methods to engage students with literature by focusing on diverse voices and culturally relevant texts. The push to merge traditional and contemporary literature aims to rekindle interest in reading among students, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Overall, the move by Memphis Public Libraries from Banned Books Week to Freedom to Read Week speaks to a larger movement within educational structures to navigate the complexities of censorship and freedom of choice in reading materials.
FAQs
What is Freedom to Read Week?
Freedom to Read Week is a new initiative by the Memphis Public Libraries, replacing the traditional Banned Books Week observance, and runs from October 5 to 11.
Why were the banned book displays removed?
The removal of banned book displays is part of a response to political pressure regarding the selection of reading materials within the library system.
What actions are library employees required to take regarding book displays?
As of October 9, library employees were instructed to obtain pre-approval for all book displays and library signs.
How many attempts were made to censor library materials in 2024?
The American Library Association reported 821 attempts to censor library materials in 2024, leading to 2,452 banned books across the U.S.
What are some reasons behind book challenges?
Many challenges stem from efforts to prevent children from accessing books with sexual content or LGBTQ+ themes.
How has censorship changed over the years?
Censorship attempts rose to 1,247 in 2023, with PEN America documenting a total of 3,362 instances of book bans in the 2022-23 academic year, marking a 33% increase from 2021-22.
What legislative actions have impacted library materials in Tennessee?
Tennessee passed legislation in 2021 and 2022 that restricts discussions on racism and biases in schools, allowing authorities to override local school boards regarding library materials.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Change | Memphis Public Libraries replaced Banned Books Week with Freedom to Read Week |
| Political Climate | Increased political pressure is affecting library materials and school curriculums |
| Approval Process | Library employees must now obtain pre-approval for book displays |
| Censorship Statistics | 821 attempts to censor library materials reported in 2024 |
| Top Reasons for Challenges | Many challenges arise from concerns over sexual content and LGBTQ+ themes |
| Tennessee Legislation | Recent laws allow authorities to override local school boards on library materials |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tennessee’s Education Freedom Scholarship Program Raises Concerns
Jimmy Kimmel Faces Suspension Over Controversial Comments
Kennebunk High School Teacher Resigns Over Controversial Post
Utah Valley University Community Faces Dual Tragedy
Dan Conaway Resigns Amid Editorial Controversy
Controversial Comments Lead to Professor’s Leave at Fort Hays State University
Far-Right Extremists and Conspiracy Theorists Gather in Ireland
Outrage Grows as Senator Reveals Mental Health Charity’s Contact Info
Community Mourns the Loss of Charlie Kirk at Heartfelt Vigil
Growing Political Tensions After Shooting Incident
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Library Plays It Safe
- Local Memphis: Banned Books Week
- Fox13 Memphis: Ruby Bridges Hands Out Books
- Memphis Flyer: List of Nearly 400 Purged Books
- Commercial Appeal: Controversial Book Bans Expand
- Wikipedia: Censorship
- Google Search: Banned Books
- Google Scholar: Banned Books in Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Book Banning
- Google News: Book Censorship
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
