Library Bans
Library Bans in Southeastern PA
Efforts to remove books from libraries have increased in recent years in our region.
This page will provide resources for pushing back against unreasonable bans.
Education Law Center Resources
The Education Law Center (ELC) provides resources for many issues on educational rights in PA. If your school is attempting to restrict access to books, the ELC may be a good first stop for resources. In particular, review their
Case Law
The American Library Association (ALA) maintains a website of notable First Amendment cases.
Presenting to School Boards
Review the ELC's School Board, Its Power, and How to Advocate fact sheet for an overview.
Each school board in PA has its own rules for presentation of public concerns. Notably, the school board typically does not respond to these concerns. Most school boards limit access to public comment to tax payers in their district. Time to comment is also strictly limited, usually to 2-3 minutes. Each school board maintains a website with its agenda and rules.
You can find the principles of leadership that the school boards should adhere to at the Pennsylvania School Board Association
- Principles of Governance and Leadership
- PSBA is a membership organization, not a regulatory body or state agency. PSBA is not in a position to assist with citizen inquiries.
There are rules for removing a school board member, if desired. See 1949 Act 14.
Organizing for Direct Action
Protests can bring attention to the issue when school boards feel entitled to ignore public concerns. It is important to protest safely. Guidelines for your rights can be found:
Teacher and Librarian Rights
What are these?
Other Resources
For resources and suggestions for combating censorship:
- Unite Against Book Bans
- National Coalition Against Censorship
- The Right To Learn (R2L)coalition. This group is facilitated by the Educators' Institute for Human Rights (EIHR).