(Originally published in Knowledge Quest, May 14, 2024) The problem Across the country, many school and public libraries have seen a surge in intellectual freedom challenges — attempts to restrict or remove access to library resources. But this round of challenges doesn't follow the usual playbook of a single patron filling out a Request for Reconsideration for just one library resource. Instead, it looks more like this: · Ten to 15 people show up at a public board meeting and crowd into the slot for public comments. · They express (as opposed to submitting in writing) the desire to remove multiple titles, 20-30 at a time. And they request that the materials be removed while under review. · They read aloud the naughtiest bits they can find in the books they object to. The apparent complaint is language and sex. The books are repeatedly described as "obscene." But in fact, the content is almost always related to LGBTQ+ and race. ·