Book Bans Persist in US: From 1637 to 2025, ALA Fights Censorship
The battle against book bans continues in the United States. Recent events highlight the ongoing struggle, from the first banned book in 1637 to the most recent challenges in 2025. The American Library Association (ALA) remains at the forefront, fighting censorship through initiatives like Banned Books Week.
In 1637, Thomas Morton's 'New English Canaan' became the first book banned in what is now the United States. Fast forward to 2025, where 596 books were pulled from Department of Defense schools serving military children worldwide. This year's Banned Books Week, themed 'Censorship Is So 1984. Read for Your Rights,' takes place October 5-11.
The ALA, which first observed Banned Books Week in 1982, reports that parents initiated 16% of documented book challenges in 2024, while organized groups accounted for 72%. In response, 13 states have passed anti-book-ban laws, with four more joining them since June 2025. At the ALA's 2025 Annual Conference, 200 people read excerpts from their favorite banned books in the 'Big Chair' event.
In 2024, 2,452 unique titles were challenged in libraries, the third-highest number since 1990. Meanwhile, the US Naval Academy Library removed 21 books related to diversity, equity, and inclusion after a Pentagon review. In another incident, the Crawford County (Ark.) Library System was ordered to pay $113,000 in legal fees for moving LGBTQ+ children's books to the adult section.
These events underscore the persistent issue of book bans and challenges in the United States. Despite progress, with more states passing protective laws, the ALA and other advocates continue to fight against censorship. As Banned Books Week reminds us, the right to read and express ideas remains a crucial freedom worth defending.
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