US sees record 5,668 books banned in 2025, driven by political campaigns and censorship efforts

The American Library Association reports a historic surge in book bans and challenges in the US, with over 5,668 books banned and more than 4,235 challenged in 2025. This increase in censorship is largely attributed to well-funded political groups targeting LGBTQ+ and BIPOC literature, rather than solely parental concerns. The report highlights ongoing legal battles and advocacy efforts aimed at protecting intellectual freedom in libraries, signaling a contentious cultural battleground that may influence future policies and legislation.