Texas Library Workers on Censorship in the State: Implications for Practice for LGBTQIA+ Collections

Abstract

Censorship efforts, especially when geared to fight against censorship of materials for minority sexuality and gender identities, are often hindered by social, cultural, religious, administrative, and political resistance. LGBTQIA+ collections within libraries face resistance, which can come in the form of overt or covert challenges. This study examines the experiences of Texas libraries with materials and book challenges through a survey conducted in summer 2023 to discover the policies and responses to censorship attempts. It also discusses implications for practice regarding material challenge policies and proactive approaches to intellectual freedom.