EveryLibrary Institute Publishes “Review of Recent Book Ban Polls and Voter Surveys”

From EveryLibrary Institute:

The EveryLibrary Institute is collecting and analyzing polling and surveys about book bans, anti-access legislation, and the perception of libraries/librarians to help advocates quickly find and interpret results. We have compiled voter-facing polls conducted by issue advocacy groups, new media, and research institutions since our previous review of book ban polls and voter surveys in January 2023.

Our original review of surveys in 2023 indicated a strong opposition among American voters to book bans and censorship in schools and public libraries. The overall perception of libraries and librarians was positive, suggesting an electorate that values access to diverse literature.

Top findings from surveys since that time indicate that book bans are the result of a minority of special interest actors pushing minority opinions and that the majority of American voters do not support censorship in public and school libraries. Trust in the profession and in library professionals remains high and the public wants librarians to be in control of collection development decisions.

These 8 surveys suggest that a significant majority of the public opposes book bans, with a substantial majority of voters in some surveys supporting state legislation to protect individuals’ rights to read freely. Some surveys show that as many as three-quarters of voters believe that ensuring people have access to diverse books is essential. More than half of Americans appear to feel that book bans infringe on their right to make decisions for their children.

There is some support for restrictions as well. Some polls show that nearly half of voters surveyed believe that there are circumstances where books should be banned. Other polls show that perhaps a third of American voters support some form of book restrictions. It is important for free speech and pro-library advocates to read and analyze these polls for insights into the fight against censorship and misinformation surrounding libraries.

These surveys also indicate that an overwhelming majority of voters trust librarians. Perhaps as many as three-quarters of Americans agree that librarians are professionals worthy of trust in providing children with suitable curricula and reading materials.

Read the Complete Report (about 2400 words)

See Also: 2022-2023 Survey of Surveys (January 27, 2023)

Filed under: Libraries, News, Public Libraries, School Libraries