Research Guides: Banned and Challenged Books: Which books have been banned and why?

Banned Book Examples

What is a banned book?

A banned book is an item that has been restricted or removed from a library by the general public or by members of a local community or religious group.

Why are Books Banned or Challenged?

Which books have been banned?

Lists of Banned and Challenged Books

Explore these lists to learn more about book banning trends, patterns, and topics!

Top 10 Most Challenged Books - American Library Association

List of 100 most frequently challenged books 2010-2019

List of 100 most frequently challenged books 2000-09

List of 100 most frequently challenged books 1990-99

Book Resumes

Reasons Why Books are Banned or Challenged

LGBTQIA+ content
BIPOC characters
Sexual Content or Sex Education
Offensive Language/Profanity
The inclusion of content such as racism, Critical Race Theory, Social Emotional Learning, or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Violence
Political Viewpoint
Religious Viewpoint
Drug use and/or content