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US Schools Record Nearly 12,000 Book Bans in 2025-2026
A group called PEN America counted books removed from public schools across the United States.
It found nearly 12,000 bans during the 2025-2026 school year, more than in any earlier single year it tracked.
The bans covered thousands of different books and affected many writers and illustrators.
Texas had the most bans, and the report linked its increase to a state law.
Some schools also use computer tools to help decide which books to review or remove.
Books about race, sexuality and gender identity were often challenged.
People who support school libraries say students should be able to read many different ideas and stories.
The report says book bans can limit what students get to read.
PEN America counted 11,982 book bans in US public schools during the 2025-2026 school year, a record for one year.
The bans affected 7,370 works and more than 4,000 authors, illustrators and translators; 114 school districts imposed bans.
Texas recorded more than 8,100 bans, a surge linked in the report to state law SB13; Florida had led the count for the previous three years.
Stephen King was the most banned author, with his books removed 312 times; Sold by Patricia McCormick was the most banned single title, with 25 removals.
The report says challenges commonly cite race, racism, sexuality and gender identity, while supporters of school libraries say bans restrict access to ideas and perspectives.
- Who
- PEN America reported book bans imposed by US public schools and 114 school districts.
- What
- A record 11,982 book bans were logged, affecting 7,370 individual works.
- Where
- Public schools across the United States, with more than 8,100 bans recorded in Texas.
- When
- During the 2025-2026 school year; the report was released Monday during Banned Books Week.
- Why
- The report says challenges commonly involved themes of race, racism, sexuality and gender identity; Texas's increase was linked to state law SB13.
Supporters of book access
Those seeking book removals
Access to books in school libraries
Supporters of book access
Supporters argue school libraries should make ideas available regardless of personal or political views, and that bans narrow students' access to voices and perspectives.
Those seeking book removals
The report identifies challenges and removals, often involving themes of race, racism, sexuality and gender identity; it does not detail the challengers' arguments beyond those themes.
Key facts
- Bans in 2025-2026
- 11,982
- Individual works affected
- 7,370
- Authors, illustrators and translators affected
- More than 4,000
- School districts with bans
- 114, a single-year record
- Texas bans
- More than 8,100
- Most banned author
- Stephen King, whose books were pulled 312 times
- Most banned single title
- Sold by Patricia McCormick, with 25 removals
- Bans counted since 2021
- About 34,000
Sources
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