Research Guides: Book Challenges in School & Public Libraries: Book Challenge Resources

Youth Collection Book Challenge Assistance

When questions or challenges arise about books in school libraries, the Youth Collection staff are able to provide some research assistance to help librarians, teachers, principals, and others properly execute their school and district policies. For example:

we may be able to help find professional book reviews for the book(s) in question
we may be able to collect other information about if and how those books are in curricula or libraries elsewhere in Iowa and beyond
we may be able to recommend other resources

If you have any questions, please email libyouth@uni.edu.

Other Resources

These other resources may also be useful. They are not affiliated with Rod Library or UNI unless otherwise indicated.

Iowa Library Association -- Intellectual Freedom committee
The ILA's Intellectual Freedom committee can provide information and support related to intellectual freedom in Iowa libraries.
Report a Challenge to the Iowa Library Association
This form can be used to confidentially report challenges to the Iowa Library Association's intellectual freedom committee. You will have the option to indicate whether you would like assistance, or whether you are just reporting.
PLEASE NOTE: You can report challenges to the Iowa Library Association and/or the American Library Association (below), but these are two separate groups, and reports are not shared between them.
Steps to Take When Materials Are Challenged (CCBC)
This page from the Cooperative Children's Book Center at UW-Madison reminds us of best practices for responding to initial challenges or concerns.
What IF... Forum (CCBC)
Also from the Cooperative Children's Book Center at UW-Madison, the "What IF..." forum features answers to questions about intellectual freedom in libraries and schools.
Challenge Support from the American Library Association
There is a LOT of information and recommendations here from the American Library Association's Office of Intellectual Freedom. (They are the ones who do the "Top 10 Most Frequently Challenged Books" and other publicity each year.)
Report a Challenge to the American Library Association
This form can be used to report challenges to, and request support from, the American Library Association's Office of Intellectual Freedom. Personal/institutional information will be kept confidential, though information about the materials challenged may be disclosed.
PLEASE NOTE: You can report challenges to the Iowa Library Association (above) and/or the American Library Association, but these are two separate groups, and reports are not shared between them.