Curated by Sarah Shreeves, Alice Sheets Marriott Dean of Libraries, University of Utah

All citizens must have free and equal access to uncensored information in order to participate meaningfully in a democratic society. This is why the American library system is essential now, as it was in the fledgling moments of the founding of this country. Here are some films and books that illustrate the critical role of libraries and librarians. 

Free For All
Directed by Dawn Logsdon and Lucie Faulknor

How did the world’s largest free public library system first take form? In 1790 Benjamin Franklin donated his collection of books to the town of Franklin, Massachusetts, and it became America’s first free public library. Filmmakers Dawn Logsdon and Lucie Faulknor have deftly illustrated how America’s public libraries first took root. Through archival footage and personal stories, the film explores themes of literacy, civic engagement, racial justice and the belief that libraries are sanctuaries where everyone is welcome.

Banned Together
Directed by Katie Way and Tom Wiggin

Library: An Unquiet History
By Matthew Battles

This is a lively and thought-provoking account of how libraries have shaped—and been shaped by—human civilization. From ancient scrolls to digital archives, the book explores the library’s role as a battleground for knowledge, power, and cultural memory.

Part of Our Lives: A Peoples History of the American Public Library
By Wayne A. Wiegand

Wiegand explores the rich, user-centered history of public libraries in the United States, emphasizing how they have served as beloved community spaces beyond their educational roles. Drawing on personal stories, historical records, and cultural analysis, Wiegand illustrates how libraries have offered comfort, connection, and empowerment to generations of Americans.

That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America
By Amanda Jones

Jones’ memoir describes her courageous stand against censorship after she publicly defended the inclusion of diverse books in her school library. Facing harassment and threats, Jones turned her experience into a broader call to protect intellectual freedom and resist the growing movement to ban books across the U.S.

On Censorship: A Public Librarian Examines Cancel Culture in the US
By James LaRue

LaRue provides a thoughtful and balanced examination of the growing wave of book challenges and censorship in American public life. Drawing on over 25 years of experience, LaRue—former director of the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom—explores how censorship, from both the political left and right, threatens the democratic mission of libraries and the broader principle of intellectual freedom.

History of Libraries in the Western World
By Michael H. Harris

Harris traces the development of libraries from ancient Mesopotamia and classical antiquity through the medieval period and into the modern era, emphasizing their evolving social, cultural and intellectual roles. The book highlights how libraries have reflected and influenced Western civilization, shaped by technological advances, educational movements and changing access to knowledge.

Farenheit 451
By Ray Bradbury

This is a dystopian novel set in a future society where books are banned and “firemen” burn any that are found. The story follows Guy Montag, a fireman who begins to question the purpose of his work and the oppressive, anti-intellectual world he lives in, ultimately seeking truth and freedom through the very books he once destroyed.

Book Banning in 21st Century America
By Emily J.M. Knox

Knox examines the motivations behind modern book challenges, revealing that censorship often stems from deeply personal beliefs about reading, morality and identity. Through real-world case studies and interviews, Knox shows that challengers frequently view texts through a literal lens, believing books can directly shape behavior and must align with their values.

A Look at Emily Knox’s Presentation at the Marriott Library in 2024
Book Banning, the Culture War, and the Election