What actions would you take if your child brought home inappropriate library books? As a parent, you’d likely contact the school. But what if the response was dismissive instead of empathetic?
For years, parents and teachers opposing certain library books have been told to “trust the experts.” The American Library Association (ALA) supports librarians, asserting that professional reviews vet all books accessible to children. However, challenging this process often results in parents being labeled as “book-banners.”
The Flaws in the Review System
Recent developments undermine the ALA’s claims. A 2026 study by one of their own divisions found that librarians increasingly distrust the reviews they rely on. These reviews, from sources like Kirkus and School Library Journal, emphasize themes and genres but fail to address specific content issues like sexual content or violence.
The ALA refuses to adopt content rating systems akin to those used for movies and music. Thus, to know a book’s content, one must read it, which parents have been doing, only to face criticism for their efforts.
Expert Opinions Ignored
If “trusting the experts” was truly about expertise, credentials would matter. However, objections from qualified individuals are often dismissed. One educator earned a library media specialist certification to support her concerns, yet it changed nothing. Her expert analysis of a book was disregarded, highlighting the resistance to credentialed opinions that contradict the prevailing narrative.
Another educator identified inappropriate content in a novel given to students. Her findings led to the discovery of numerous sexually explicit titles in the catalog. Despite her expertise and record as an effective teacher, she faced backlash, lawsuits, and death threats.
A System Resistant to Change
The ALA’s approach often undermines those with legitimate concerns. Objectors are labeled as lacking credentials, and even when they have them, their expertise is ignored. Such actions create a hostile environment for dissenting voices.
For experts like Crystal Marull and Vicki Baggett, speaking out meant becoming targets. Marull holds a Ph.D. and multiple teaching certifications, while Baggett has extensive teaching experience and credentials. Their experiences raise questions about how the system treats parents without certifications.
This situation reveals the reality behind “trust the experts.” It’s less about valuing expertise and more about enforcing conformity to the ALA’s conclusions. The threat of reputational and career consequences is becoming less effective as scrutiny increases.
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