The 21st Show

Best of: Does Illinois’ anti-book ban do enough to protect libraries?

Produced by Kennedy Vincent and Nick Boivin
 
A pile of challenged books appear at the Utah Pride Center in Salt Lake City on Dec. 16, 2021. Book challenges at school and public libraries continue to surge, according to a report from the American Library Association.

A pile of challenged books appear at the Utah Pride Center in Salt Lake City on Dec. 16, 2021. Book challenges at school and public libraries continue to surge, according to a report from the American Library Association. AP Photo/Rick Bowmer

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In January 2024, Illinois will be the first state to make it illegal for books to be banned in public and school libraries. However, neighboring states are passing opposite legislation by restricting access to books, specifically those involving race and LGBTQ+ topics.

Today we’re joined by a panel of experts to share their insight on whether Illinois’s new law will do enough to protect public and school libraries.

If you would like to hear more about this topic, there will be a panel discussion at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 19th, at the North Branch of the Peoria Public Library.

Guests:

Ashley Stewart 
Library Director at Caseyville Library

John Chrastka
Executive Director, EveryLibrary

Fallon Kirby
Educator, Peoria Public Schools

State Rep. Adam Niemerg
Republican from Teutopolis

A version of this program was first broadcast July 17, 2023.