Book bans have been a hot topic in the education world over the last couple of years, causing some states to sign laws protecting libraries from attempted bans. Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation Monday that is designed to prohibit public and school libraries in New Jersey from banning books based on their content or authors’ backgrounds. The law also shields librarians from legal action when adhering to the new standards
New Jersey joins Illinois and Minnesota in enacting measures to counter the rise of book bans nationwide, particularly in Republican-led states like Florida and Texas which each have exceeded over 350 banned titles. Studies show that 71% of voters oppose book bans; critics often label the attempts to ban literature as fascistic and “Orwellian.” Texas (350+ bans), Florida (350+), South Carolina (50+) and Utah (50+) all rank in the bottom 35 of public school systems in the US. New Jersey’s public schools rank first in the nation.
The signing took place at the Princeton Public Library, a symbolic location near the university’s campus. Murphy framed the law as a stand against censorship efforts spreading across the country.
“This law is the antithesis of the book-banning wave,” Murphy said. “It’s a proud moment for New Jersey and a reminder of how much it matters where you live.”
The law mandates that libraries and school boards establish clear policies for reviewing and removing materials. Books cannot be excluded solely due to objections over the views they express or because an individual finds the content offensive. Restrictions are allowed for content deemed “developmentally inappropriate” for certain age groups.
Librarians praised the legislation for recognizing their expertise and reinforcing libraries as places for open inquiry. Karen Grant, president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, said it safeguards intellectual freedom for students and reaffirms the role of libraries in fostering growth.
The law follows a record-breaking surge in book challenges across the United States. According to the American Library Association, over 4,200 titles were targeted for removal in 2023, up from 2,600 in 2022. Many of the contested books focus on LGBTQ+ themes and racial issues.
Critics of the law, including conservative parent groups, argue that certain books are inappropriate for young readers due to sexually explicit or controversial content. National organizations like Moms for Liberty advocate for more parental control over library selections.
Martha Hickson, a retired New Jersey librarian, recounted her own experience with book challenges during a 2021 school board meeting. She faced accusations of promoting “pedophilia” and “pornography” for including books such as Gender Queer and Lawn Boy in her collection. Speaking at the bill signing, Hickson called the new law a victory after enduring years of harassment.
The law takes effect in a year, but state officials are authorized to begin preparations immediately to ensure compliance.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.