US book bans in public schools reached a record annual high of nearly 12,000 during the 2025-2026 school year, according to a new report from PEN America. The free-expression nonprofit reported 11,800 bans, the highest single-year total since it began tracking in 2021. Since then, PEN America has documented over 34,000 instances of book bans, calling it a growing “book censorship crisis.”
Why Book Bans Are Surging
The sharp increase stems from a combination of new state-level censorship laws and the use of artificial intelligence tools that can rapidly flag and remove large numbers of titles. PEN America notes that these AI systems often lack human oversight, leading to sweeping bans that catch even classic literature in their net.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
State Laws Driving the Increase
Texas saw the most bans by far, with more than 8,100 in the 2025-2026 school year. This surge is largely attributed to Texas law SB13, which bars extensive categories of books from schools. Florida, which had ranked first for the previous three years, dropped to second place as Texas took the lead.
Most Banned Titles and Authors
The report found a record number of unique titles banned—over 7,000—involving more than 4,000 authors, illustrators, and translators. The most frequently banned book was Sold by Patricia McCormick, a young adult novel about a Nepali girl sold into sexual servitude. Stephen King was the most banned author for the second year in a row.
Impact on Schools and Communities
PEN America identified 114 school districts that banned books during the year, the highest number ever for a single year. These bans affect not only students’ access to diverse perspectives but also the livelihoods of authors and educators. The organization warns that such widespread censorship undermines critical thinking and free expression.
| State | Number of Bans (2025-2026) | Key Law/Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 8,100+ | SB13 |
| Florida | ~2,000 | Previous state laws |
| Other states | ~1,700 | Various local policies |
Key Takeaways
- Record 11,800 book bans in the 2025-2026 school year.
- Texas leads with over 8,100 bans, driven by SB13.
- AI tools are accelerating the removal of books at scale.
- Over 7,000 unique titles and 4,000 creators affected.
- 114 school districts imposed bans, a new high.
FAQ
What is the record number of book bans in US public schools?
Nearly 12,000 book bans were recorded in the 2025-2026 school year, the highest annual total since PEN America began tracking in 2021.
Which state had the most book bans?
Texas had the most bans, with over 8,100, largely due to the state law SB13. Florida, previously first, ranked second.
What was the most banned book?
Sold by Patricia McCormick was the most frequently banned title. Stephen King was the most banned author for the second consecutive year.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
