Libraries as Battlegrounds in Culture Wars

Public libraries have become a central battleground in the ongoing culture wars in America. Incidents such as library board meetings being flooded with protesters demanding bans on specific books, or right-wing groups targeting libraries, have highlighted the challenges faced by librarians. Libraries have evolved to address social issues beyond providing books, including combating hate crimes, preventing overdoses, and offering computer skills training. However, the increasing polarization of society and disinvestment in public institutions pose threats to the future of libraries as communal spaces and essential public services.