Book Banning in America: A Reference Handbook

The debates and controversies over book bans and censorship--and the constitutional, political, and intellectual implications of those events--have intensified in these politically polarized times. This resource provides a guide for understanding every facet of modern book banning campaigns, as well as their impact on school systems, public libraries, students, parents, educators, and the long-term health and vitality of American communities and culture.

Coverage ranges across the many political and cultural factors driving the modern surge in book banning efforts in schools and libraries across America. It also discusses the arguments leveled against those book banning efforts by free speech advocates and other defenders of intellectual freedom and exploration for young people. In addition, Book Banning in America features a blend of personal and scholarly essays and primary documents to illuminate the perspectives and concerns of all sides of the book banning/censorship debate. Coverage places a particular focus on providing context for understanding well-known and influential book banning campaigns and book censorship efforts throughout U.S. history.