Unfortunately, access to books is still under serious threat in the U.S. as the American Library Association’s (ALA) annual report on the state of the nation’s libraries makes all too clear. The ALA reports that in 2024, a staggering 2,452 unique book titles were challenged, which is the third-highest number ever documented by ALA. For comparison, from 2001-2020, the annual average books challenged was 273 unique titles.
Publishers Weekly writes that “the most common reasons for challenges were claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and dealing with topics of race, racism, inclusivity, equity and social justice.” The ALA says that the majority of book ban campaigns — nearly 3 out of 4 — are led by pressure groups or government sources.
For more insights, read the ALA’s State of American Libraries 2024 Snapshot and make your calendars for Banned Books Week 2025 October 5-11, 2025 to help support access to reading for all readers.
The Top 10 most challenged books of 2024
1. All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto by George M. Johnson
2. Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe
3. (Tie) The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
3. (Tie) The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
5. Tricks by Ellen Hopkins
6. (Tie) Looking for Alaska by John Green
6. (Tie) Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
8. (Tie) Crank by Ellen Hopkins
8. (Tie) Sold by Patricia McCormick
10. Flamer by Mike Curato
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