NCAM Statement: Book Bans
Banning Books is a Threat to Free Expression and Public Access to Information
Written by Neal Lemery and Cosmo Jones
As a nonprofit dedicated to supporting creativity, free expression, collaboration, and public access to information, we strongly oppose the recent wave of book bans in libraries across the country, including the recent ban in Tillamook by the School Board of "How the Garcia Girls Lost their Accents". This award-winning novel written in 1991 by Julia Alvarez gives voice to four sisters as they grow up in two cultures. As with all good literature and other artistic expressions, the book addresses serious and difficult societal issues, including national and cultural identity, coming of age, domestic violence, and sexual abuse.
Book bans represent a dangerous threat to the core values of free speech and the open exchange of ideas fundamental to a healthy democracy. We are mindful of and supportive of the First Amendment to the US Constitution (“Congress shall make no laws restricting … the freedom of speech…” (which has been expanded by the courts to include all levels of government).
We are also mindful of our state constitution's free speech clause, Oregon Constitution: Section 8. Freedom of speech and press: “No law shall be passed restraining the free expression of opinion, or restricting the right to speak, write, or print freely on any subject whatever; but every person shall be responsible for the abuse of this right."
Removing books from library shelves based on their content or the personal views of some community members deprives the public of this essential resource. It also sends a chilling message that certain ideas and forms of expression are not welcome, undermining the principles of intellectual freedom. Such actions contradict the professional ideals of artistry and creativity, and the basic principles of a free society.
Moreover, research has consistently shown that exposure to a wide variety of books and perspectives is essential for developing critical thinking skills, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of complex issues. Limiting access to information ultimately harms all community members' educational and personal growth, especially impressionable youth.
Exposure to literature and the discussion of those works is a healthy process to engage youth in thoughtful analysis, critical thinking, and in finding ways to express emotions, as well as promoting the emotional health and strength of the entire community.
We urge local and state officials to resist calls for book bans and instead recommit to upholding the core mission of public libraries - to provide free and open access to information for all. Banning books is a shortsighted and harmful course of action that betrays the fundamental principles of free expression and community-based education.
In our community, we have an epidemic of sexual abuse and suicide in both youth and the broader community. The two issues are clearly interwoven. The better response to these trends is more resources, more staff training and more supportive curriculum, including good books that kids can relate to and feel empowered. The arts have a role in that.
We aim to be part of the solution, and to promote and facilitate resources to support the arts, and to serve the entire community.
References:
Over 1,600 book bans have been enacted in schools and libraries across 32 states since July 2021 (PEN America).
The most banned and challenged books in 2021 were titles that featured characters of color or addressed issues of race and racism, as well as LGBTQ+ characters and themes (American Library Association).
85% of book bans target titles that include protagonists or prominent characters who are people of color, LGBTQ+, or address racism and racial justice (PEN America).
54% of public libraries report facing increased scrutiny and challenges to their collections, often driven by a small number of vocal activists (American Library Association).
Studies show that students in schools with diverse book collections demonstrate higher levels of empathy, critical thinking, and academic achievement (Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics).
Public libraries provide free access to information for all community members - 98% of public libraries offer free internet access, which is a critical resource for many low-income households (Pew Research Center).
