“Challenges to books, specifically books by non-White male authors, are happening at the highest rates we’ve ever seen,” said Jonathan Friedman, director of PEN America’s Free Expression and Education program, who lead the PEN study. “What is happening in this country in terms of banning books in schools is unparalleled in its frequency, intensity, and success.”

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The Nashville Public Library campaign comes after the Tennessee state legislature approved a bill that would give a politically appointed panel the final say on removing books from the state’s public school libraries they consider “obscene and harmful” to children. The state’s governor, Bill Lee, announced plans to sign the bill when it reaches his desk.

An NPL library card gives users access to the over 2 million books in their catalog, including books on the American Library Association’s list of most challenged for censorship, including Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye” and Angie Thomas’ “The Hate You Give.” And an “I Read Banned Books” card is the perfect slap in the face to an oppressive, old-school attempt at controlling the narrative.

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“I want Nashvillians to know: Nashville Public Library will always respect your Freedom to Read — to independently determine what you read, and don’t read, and to exercise your role in determining what your children read,” said Library Director Kent Oliver in a press release.