Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Codex: The Journal of the Louisiana Chapter of the ACRL

Abstract

This article explores the history of challenges and bans on library and school materials in Louisiana from 1938 to 2024. It provides context for recent legislation, particularly Act 436 of 2023. The article reviews incidents documented in newspaper articles and library publications, focusing on challenges related to race, sexual content, political views, and LGBTQ+ themes. It discusses the roles of librarians, school boards, and community groups in these circumstances. The historical challenges and book bans in Louisiana reveal a recurring pattern of moral and political arguments used to justify censorship. This pattern directly influences, and is echoed by, recent legislation, including Act 436. The article concludes by reflecting on the ongoing nature of these issues and emphasizing the importance of intellectual freedom.

First Page

86

Last Page

146

DOI

https://journal.acrlla.org/index.php/codex/article/view/241

Publication Date

2025

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