That Librarian

Reviews

As an author whose novels have been banned in hundreds of school districts after falsely being cited for explicit content, I have been waiting for a book like this one. We writers are well aware that the foot soldiers in this spreading civil war are librarians, who are threatened personally and profoundly by those who call for widespread book bans. Amanda Jones clearly outlines how we got here, who’s leading this false charge against qualified educators, media specialists, and authors—and most importantly, explores the steps we all must take to make the voice of truth and reason louder than their caterwauling. Deeply important and compelling, this book about one heroic librarian's fight against book bans, will help all of us who care about books and our freedom to read. Read this absorbing book to understand the conspiracy-driven war on public education—from inside the schoolhouse library. Amanda Jones takes us into the trenches and offers deft portraits of the people and organizations waging this war on democracy—as well as the heroes standing up for freedom and education. Not only timely, but essential . . . This is a memoir of grit and grace. This is a rallying cry for the protection of intellectual freedom. A fantastic book. Jones’ message is bracing, and she delivers it with admirable fire and focus. This is an inspiring portrait of resilience and a galvanizing call to ‘speak up for intellectual freedom.’ [Jones] is frank, open, emotionally raw, and unwavering. What she endured is every librarian's worst nightmare, yet she perseveres, offering tips and playbooks for how readers can defend books about LGBTQIA+ topics of interest, sexual health, and more in their own public libraries. A must-read in order to understand the deep and lasting impact of online smear campaigns and enduring need to stand up for books. Jones is an inspiration to everyone combating book bans and her memoir/guidebook should be available to all to help us defend our right to read. [Jones] offers sound advice about how individuals from a variety of viewpoints can better educate themselves regarding library content, purchasing processes, and reconsideration policies . . . A useful book for readers interested in better understanding a persistent problem. The book that every librarian and teacher, and those that oversee librarians and teachers, should read and share . . . your starting point toward understanding what this really is about and how you can protect yourself and support others in this fight. That Librarian, part memoir, part impassioned political argument against censorship and book bans, is a deeply felt exposition and a strategic workbook about ways for communities to fight back . . . It’s a powerful, angry, and inspiring book. A full-throated defense of the freedom to read, to discover, and to think. In her memoir, award-winning school librarian Jones delves into how she was subjected to a hate campaign after speaking out against censorship attempts at her local public library … Jones’s deeply personal account of her battle to regain her reputation and combat intolerance in libraries is essential reading and ultimately a clarion call for others to help defend intellectual freedom and democracy. A taste of the emotional toll librarians, teachers, and library staff have been subject to for the better part of a decade in regard to book banning . . . A template for those currently serving in the culture war on how to respond, react, and stand up for intellectual freedom. Heartfelt . . . Jones is a compelling narrator with a nearly unbelievable story that is a parable for our divided times . . . For all who value books, libraries and the freedom of information, That Librarian is an empowering, triumphant tale. That Librarian is revelation. But it’s more than an exposé about hate and its effects on principled people. It’s also a gripping memoir . . . In Amanda Jones, the American public has a bold truth-teller. Amanda Jones’ story is one filled with humor and heart (and a healthy dose of snark) that will enlighten and infuriate you . . . a powerful, truth-telling memoir that is strongly of the moment, and it absolutely deserves your time and attention. Amanda has never wavered on her commitment to free speech and education. She has become a national voice for intellectual freedom and democracy, receiving awards from both the American Library Association and the American Association of School Librarians in 2023. And last year, she published a powerful memoir . . . She is beyond deserving of wider recognition. One of the most absorbing books I've read this year. An important and engrossing story. A testament to the power of fighting back against hate speech and political extremism. Really important . . . a fantastic book. Expand reviews