The ALA's 2024 "State of America's Libraries" report underscores the urgency of funding for libraries amidst efforts for censorship and national disasters. Notably, it discusses Donald Trump's executive order aiming to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, jeopardizing library services nationwide. Despite fewer titles being challenged compared to the previous year, a high total of 4,190 books faced challenges, asserting the ongoing struggle against censorship. Libraries have been vital support systems, providing essential services during disasters, thus highlighting their importance in community resilience.
"Library services throughout the U.S. are in jeopardy because of this action," writes Leslie Burger, interim executive director of the ALA.
The scale of these climate disasters do not show any signs of abating in 2025 and beyond, indicating libraries are crucial as community hubs.
Fewer titles were targeted fewer times in 2024, but nearly 4,200 books were challenged, the third-highest number recorded since the ALA began documenting censorship in 1990.
These cuts would never have come at a good time, but this year libraries served as important hubs amid national disasters, providing shelter and information.
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