Louisiana Librarian's Battle Against Censorship Sparks National Debate
Amanda Jones, a middle-school librarian, faces threats and harassment for defending inclusive library collections. Her memoir sheds light on the broader implications of book banning in America.
In her memoir "That Librarian," Amanda Jones recounts her harrowing experience as a middle-school librarian in Watson, Louisiana, who found herself at the center of a heated debate over book censorship. The book, which could be more aptly subtitled "Dispatches From the Trenches of America's Culture War," offers a personal and compelling narrative of Jones' fight against book banning in public libraries.
Jones' ordeal began in July 2022 when she testified before the Livingston Parish library board, advocating for diverse and inclusive library collections. Her measured argument emphasized the importance of representation and access to information for all community members, particularly children. However, her stance quickly drew the ire of right-wing activists, primarily from an organization called Citizens for a New Louisiana.
The tactics employed against Jones mirror those used in similar conflicts across the United States. These include decontextualizing book excerpts, launching personal attacks on social media, invoking child safety as a justification for censorship, and spreading misinformation. Jones faced false accusations of promoting inappropriate content to minors and even received death threats.
The American Library Association reported 1,269 demands to censor library materials in 2022, the highest number in two decades. This surge in challenges often targets books addressing race, gender, and LGBTQ+ issues, reflecting a broader cultural conflict.
Jones provides insight into the personal toll of such attacks, describing strained friendships and the need for a leave of absence to protect her mental health. Despite these challenges, she chose to fight back, filing a defamation lawsuit and becoming an advocate for the freedom to read.
"If I had the ability to indoctrinate children, I would indoctrinate them to be kind to one another, return their library books on time, and stop putting their chicken nuggets from the cafeteria in the book-return box."
The author's humor lightens the gravity of the subject matter, while her broader perspective illuminates the importance of libraries in communities. Jones argues that public libraries must maintain inclusive collections and points out that many challenged books feature authors and characters from marginalized groups.
She also highlights the hypocrisy of some pro-censorship activists, noting their reluctance to address other child safety issues, such as gun violence. Jones suggests that the anti-library movement is part of a larger agenda to marginalize certain groups, defund public institutions, and potentially privatize education and libraries.
The book concludes with a practical toolkit for citizens who wish to support their local libraries. Jones encourages readers to start small by addressing misinformation within their social circles and showing solidarity through their presence at library events.
"That Librarian" serves as a testament to the crucial role of public and school libraries in fostering an informed society. More importantly, it underscores the significance of engaged citizens like Amanda Jones, who are willing to stand up for the freedom to read and access information.
