Consider This from NPR The Battle Over Book Bans Takes a Toll on Librarians and Comes at a Financial cost
Aug 11, 2023
Tovia Smith, an NPR correspondent, dives into the contentious world of book bans and their severe impact on librarians. She reveals the emotional and professional toll these bans take, with many librarians facing hostility and fear for their jobs. The discussion highlights the ideological polarization surrounding these issues, particularly the clash between censorship advocates and those fighting for access to diverse literature. Smith shares poignant stories from Louisiana, illuminating how financial strain and community turmoil are reshaping the landscape of public libraries.
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Librarian Targeted for Speaking Out
- Amanda Jones, a school librarian, faced death threats after speaking against book policing in Livingston Parish.
- Her words were twisted online, leading to accusations of advocating for teaching anal sex to children.
Librarians Leaving Due to Hostility
- The current environment is causing many librarians to leave their positions due to safety concerns.
- This exodus includes experienced professionals and creates staffing shortages in libraries.
Librarian Quits Over Book Restrictions
- Latasha McKinney, a librarian, quit her job due to hostility towards LGBTQ+ and race-related books.
- Her decision was influenced by her grandfather's experience of being kicked out of a library for being Black.
