The American Library Association has recorded 695 attempts to censor library materials and services between January 1 and August 31, 2023. During that time another 1,915 books were challenged or banned. The number of unique titles challenged has increased by 20% from the same period in 2022. A year according to the ALA which had the highest number of book challenges since they began compiling this data more than 20 years ago. Florida and other states have banned or challenged courses and materials covering a variety of topics with LGBTQ themes and those related to African American history which has led to the removal of books over topics such as Critical Race Theory, Structural Racism, and the Black Lives Matter movement. Using PEN America’s media literacy guidelines, this presentation hopes to discuss strategies for developing the basic tools and processes for critical thinking for librarians, library staff, and the public to analyze and distinguish the misinformation, disinformation, and facts surrounding this topic. Our goal is to promote awareness and facilitate educational and civil discussion.
