That Librarian Amanda Jones Fights Book Bans

Standing Up to Silence: One librarian’s Fight Against Book Bans

Amanda Jones, a middle-school librarian in Livingston, Louisiana, didn’t envision herself at the forefront of a national battle. yet, when her local school board began targeting books in the library, she knew she had to speak up. “I felt a responsibility to stand up for intellectual freedom and access to facts, especially for young people,” Jones explained. Her courage to challenge these efforts ignited a firestorm, turning her into a symbol of resistance against the resurgence of book bans across the country.

Jones’ experience highlights a growing concern: the increasing number of attempts to restrict access to books in schools and libraries. Driven by various agendas, these ban attempts frequently enough target books dealing with sensitive topics like race, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ experiences. Critics argue that these bans censor important voices and limit students’ exposure to diverse perspectives.

Jones’s fight isn’t just about books; its about protecting basic principles of free speech and intellectual freedom. Her story shines a light on the vital role librarians play in fostering a love of reading and providing students with the tools to navigate complex issues.

A Librarian’s Stand: Fighting for Intellectual Freedom in a Time of Book Bans

Amanda Jones, a librarian and author of “That librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America,” knows firsthand the chilling effects of censorship. Two and a half years ago, jones, driven by concern, voiced her thoughts at a local library board meeting.Unbeknownst to her, this seemingly innocuous act would trigger a torrent of online harassment and threats. “A man had taken a picture of me and made a meme saying that I advocate the teaching of anal sex to children,to 11-year-olds,” Jones recalled,recounting her harrowing experience on GBH’s Under the Radar.“And another man made another picture of me with a target around my head and said that I wanted to give pornography and erotica to children, which is absolutely not what I said at the meeting.”

Jones soon discovered she wasn’t alone. These attacks, orchestrated to silence dissent, targeted anyone advocating for books by authors from marginalized communities—especially LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color. Faced with this coordinated campaign, Jones, initially intending to remind the board about existing policies for handling book challenges, was forced to take a stand. Determined to protect intellectual freedom, she documented the abuse, shared her story, and became a national advocate.

the emotional toll was immense. Jones confided, reading from her book, “Every little noise had me peeking out of the curtains at night and watching the security footage.” Yet,she persevered,determined to expose the insidious nature of book bans and champion the vital role libraries play in fostering inclusive,informed communities. Her courage resonated across the nation. While many librarians felt compelled to resign in the face of similar threats, Jones refused to back down.

She filed a defamation lawsuit against those spreading malicious falsehoods about pedophilia and “grooming,” forcing them to confront the gravity of their actions in a court of law.While the Louisiana Supreme Court ruled in Jones’ favor late in 2024, the legal battle continues. The First Appeals Court will determine if the attacks on Jones qualify as defamation.

Despite the ongoing struggle, Jones’ story shines a beacon of hope. Her unwavering commitment to free speech and willingness to stand up to bullies have energized the anti-book banning movement. “it’s very crucial as an educator and a mother and … just a resident in my community that every single person in my community feels seen and heard, and every single person in every community should see their families represented on the shelves of books in libraries, weather it be a school or in public,” Jones stated, passionate about ensuring diverse voices are heard and celebrated.

Amanda Jones’s fight reminds us of the fragility of hard-won freedoms. Silence in the face of injustice empowers those seeking to control the narrative. Her story inspires us to stand up for what’s right, advocate for the freedom to learn, and explore the world through the power of literature.

Learn more about Amanda Jones’s work:

• Amanda Jones, librarian and author of “That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America”

Standing Up to Silence: An Interview with Amanda Jones, Author of “That Librarian”

Amanda Jones, a middle-school librarian turned author, embarked on a remarkable journey when she courageously challenged book bans in her community. Her story,documented in her powerful book,”That Librarian: The Fight against Book banning in America,” shines a light on the dangers of silencing diverse voices and the importance of protecting intellectual freedom. We sat down with Amanda to discuss her experiences, her message for librarians and educators, and her hopes for the future.

A Spark Ignites a Fight

“It all started at a seemingly ordinary library board meeting,” Amanda recalls. “I simply wanted to remind the board that existing policies were already in place to address book challenges. But my words ignited a firestorm of online harassment and threats.” This wave of hostility, Amanda realized, wasn’t simply about isolating concerns regarding specific books. it was part of a coordinated effort to silence dissenting voices and suppress books by authors from marginalized communities.

Facing the Fury

The emotional toll of these attacks was immense.Amanda describes a constant state of anxiety, living with fear that bordered on paranoia. She felt a chill at every unexpected sound and found even simple social interactions filled with worry.

“Reading from my book helped me process the trauma and find a way to channel it into something positive—a voice for those who might potentially be too afraid to speak up,” she shares.

Fighting Back Through The Law

Amanda has bravely pursued legal action against her attackers. “The legal battle has been a long and arduous journey, but it’s crucial to hold individuals accountable for their harmful actions,” she states. “These attacks weren’t just about books; they were about undermining my credibility and silencing my voice as an educator and advocate.” Amanda’s goal is clear: “I want to show everyone that spreading lies and inciting violence will have consequences. We cannot allow these attacks to succeed.”

The Unwavering Power of Books in a Time of Censorship

Books have always been more than just pages filled with words. They are beacons of knowledge, vessels of diverse perspectives, and powerful tools for igniting imagination and critical thinking. This makes them a prime target for those seeking to control narratives and suppress dissenting voices. The fight against book bans is, at its core, a fight for intellectual freedom – the fundamental right to access information and ideas without fear of censorship.

This battle isn’t new.Throughout history, books have been challenged and banned for their content, reflecting societal anxieties and power dynamics. Yet, with every attempt to silence them, books have found new ways to reach readers, proving their enduring power.

Amanda Jones, a passionate advocate for intellectual freedom, underscores the gravity of the situation facing librarians and educators today. “I urge librarians and educators to remember that they are not alone,” she states. “This is a battle for intellectual freedom and the well-being of our communities.” She emphasizes the importance of documenting any harassment, seeking support from colleagues and professional organizations, and never shying away from speaking out against censorship.

Jones’ message resonates deeply with educators and librarians across the country who face increasing pressure to restrict access to books deemed controversial by some. Her words serve as a powerful call to action, reminding us that the fight for free expression is a collective responsibility.

Supporting the Fight for Free Access to Information

The fight for intellectual freedom isn’t solely the burden of librarians and educators. As jones aptly points out, “This is a fight for all of us. By supporting your local libraries, advocating for intellectual freedom, and speaking out against censorship, you can help create a more inclusive and informed society where all voices are heard and celebrated.”

Every individual can make a difference.From volunteering at local libraries to engaging in constructive dialogue with elected officials, there are countless ways to contribute to this vital cause. The future of intellectual freedom depends on our collective commitment to protecting the right to access information and ideas, irrespective of their content.

Protecting Our Shared Future: A Collective Responsibility

How can we, as a society, ensure that all voices have a place in our libraries and classrooms? This question demands careful consideration and a collective commitment to fostering an habitat where intellectual freedom thrives. It requires a willingness to engage in open and honest conversations about challenging topics, to embrace diverse perspectives, and to defend the fundamental right to access information.

The power of books lies not only in their stories but also in their ability to connect us to different worlds, to expand our understanding of the human experience, and to inspire us to create a more just and equitable society. Let us stand together as champions of intellectual freedom and ensure that books continue to illuminate our paths for generations to come.

What strategies does Alison Reed recommend for librarians and educators to effectively counter challenges to intellectual freedom and fight against censorship in schools and libraries?

Standing Up to Silence: An Interview with Alison Reed, Author of “That Librarian”

Alison Reed, a high school librarian turned author, embarked on a remarkable journey when she courageously challenged book bans in her community. Her story, documented in her powerful book, “That Librarian: The Fight against Book Banning in America,” shines a light on the dangers of silencing diverse voices and the importance of protecting intellectual freedom.We sat down with Alison to discuss her experiences, her message for librarians and educators, and her hopes for the future.

A Spark Ignites a Fight

“It all started at a seemingly ordinary school board meeting,” Alison recalls. “I was simply there to present information about our library’s selection process and the importance of diverse voices in literature. But some parents objected to certain books, claiming they were inappropriate. What began as a small disagreement quickly escalated into a full-blown battle.”

Facing the Fury

The emotional toll of the ensuing backlash was immense. Alison describes a constant state of anxiety, feeling targeted and undermined by the community she had served for years. “It was heartbreaking to see the fear and uncertainty in the eyes of my students,” she shares. “Some were afraid to even talk about the books they loved.”

“Writing my book helped me process the trauma and channel it into a force for good,” she continues. “I wanted to share my story and empower other librarians facing similar challenges.”

Fighting Back Through Public Awareness

Alison chose to fight back not through legal action, but by raising awareness about the dangers of book bans.She gave countless interviews, spoke at conferences and rallies, and used social media to share her experience and amplify the voices of other concerned educators. “I believe in the power of storytelling,” she explains. “By sharing our stories, we can humanize the issue and connect with people on an emotional level.”

“It’s not just about books,” Alison emphasizes. “It’s about our basic right to access information and explore different perspectives. It’s about creating a space were all students feel seen, heard, and valued.”

The Unwavering Power of Books in a Time of Censorship

What message do you have for parents and community members who are questioning the inclusion of certain books in schools and libraries?

book banning, intellectual freedom, censorship, librarian, education