Austin Public Library condemns Texas book bans, censorship
Austin’s public library system this week took a firm stand on the wave of book bans happening in public and school libraries throughout Texas in 2021.
Libraries across the state have been reviewing children’s and young adult books on their shelves after lawmakers and parents questioned whether some content is appropriate for students, including accusations of overly sexual narratives and the promotion of critical race theory (CRT).
“Freedom to read is a right that must be protected in our schools and public libraries, and we must not give in to the vocal few that want to speak for the many,” said Roosevelt Weeks, director of the Austin Public Library, in a statement released by the organization Monday. The system operates 20 branches throughout the state capital.
The statement also noted that the Texas Library Association has seen a “substantial increase in censorship activity” in state libraries. The association's Office for Intellectual Freedom reported an “unprecedented volume” in book challenges this past fall.
Read more: https://www.chron.com/politics/article/Austin-Public-Library-condemns-censorship-book-16734125.php