That Librarian details the story of how Amanda Jones became a local villain. After speaking against book censorship at a library board meeting in her small Louisiana town, Jones became the target of conservative keyboard warriors working to silence marginalized voices in libraries. A school librarian herself, Jones writes of the long uphill battle against conservative propaganda against books in her community and others.

Part memoir, part social history, Jones intermixes her own story with histories of book censorship and library challenges in America. That Librarian gets a solid 3.5 from me. Jones' story is harrowing and bravely acknowledges the position of privilege she has to pursue this fight and even write this book. I did find when the story drifted from her own, the writing could be a little longwinded and err on the side of rant. I did feel that, while important to say, the people who needed to hear Jones' comments aren't the ones reading it.

Amanda Jones shares the raw pain, fear, and challenges of her experience as a school librarian and community member in a rural parish trying to advocate for book choice in a way that really allows you as the reader to empathize with her experience. It is incredible to me some of the things she's endured in the name of intellectual freedom, especially knowing that this book was written in modern times, not centuries ago. She wrote in a way that was vulnerable, real, and relatable, and I think anyone who reads her story will feel empathy, anger, frustration, but also hope, as she modeled tenacity in the face of adversity and did not let the bullies break her spirit.

A great and insightful read into what Amanda Jones has gone through in the past few years. It's inspiring how she has fought back and stood up for librarians everywhere!

This is an essential book for our current political climate. Amanda Jones showed incredible bravery when she spoke against censorship at her local public library board meeting and faced online hate and defamation. It impacted every aspect of her life, and it was tough to read about all that she endured. I'm a school librarian who had a run-in with an angry parent accusing me of indoctrination, and it was incredibly stressful, but it was NOTHING compared to all that Amanda went through. Thanks for fighting the good fight, Amanda, and inspiring others to continue doing so. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.

This book is a gripping and timely narrative that dives into the rising wave of book banning sweeping across the country. From the moment I picked it up, I was completely engrossed in Amanda's story—an emotionally charged and, at times, shocking account that sheds light on the alarming consequences of censorship. The story powerfully portrays a community full of fear and frustration, scapegoating books as the root of the problem. I appreciated how accurately the book depicted the role of social media in fueling this hysteria, illustrating how quickly misinformation and extreme opinions can spread.

As a librarian myself, I especially appreciated the references at the end, offering readers practical ways to support intellectual freedom within their communities.

Thank you to Amanda Jones, NetGalley, and Bloomsbury Publishing for an advanced eBook in exchange for my honest review.

As a former school librarian, I probably related to this more than most. However, I think it would be an important read for anyone, for raising awareness of what is going on. I was fortunate in time to never be formally challenged or attacked, but I know it happens all the time! Our country has got to stop trying to ban books simply because the stories or people are not something we personally relate to. There are all kinds of people in this world, and every single one of them has the right to be represented in what they read. Librarians know what they are doing, we have formal training and collection policies for a reason. If people bothered to ask and find out, they would understand it a lot better!

"Rosie asked, 'What do dementors do?' 'They suck the life out of you,' Rowling said. 'They take all happiness and all recollection of anything cheerful in your past out of you so you're just left with despair.' Rosie said, 'This really got to me because there are people in my adult life who I feel are dementors. There are people who I know are like that.' Me too, Rosie. Me too. However, I refuse to let my dementors take my soul." ~Amanda Jones, That Librarian
This book is touching my entire soul. As a librarian, as a reader, as a person who believes in the magic and power of books with all of my heart and being. I have recently felt a little of the dementors trying to suck the joy out of my world - because of who I am and who I am not. Reading this beautiful, heart-wrenching book right now is restoring my faith in myself and in the power of books and words. Amanda Jones is a librarian from Louisiana who has undergone some terrible muck-raking because of her own faith, beliefs, opinions and support of books and the rights of all readers. Her story is hard, but so very important in this day and age, and I am so honored and thrilled to have an advance copy to read and review. It did just go on sale this week, and I think every librarian or non-librarian should read this book.

Nice to put a name, a face and a library system to what's going on in the US right now. Which is very much real. And while she tells her story. She also like a good librarian tells you he facts and where to find the information for yourself. A first hand account of book banning and how far people will go.

If ever a clarion call were needed in defense of the First Amendment in general and libraries in particular, that time would be now. Amanda Jones is an educator in a small Louisiana town, where she has lived all of her life. When a censorship battle presented itself, primarily at the behest of organized outsiders with an agenda, she turned up and spoke in a public meeting; in doing so, she unwittingly entered the most chilling chamber of horrors one might imagine.

My thanks go to Bloomsbury and Net Galley for the review copy. This book is for sale now.

Amanda describes herself as a committed Christian and a political moderate; she blushingly confesses to have voted for Trump in 2016. How could a Southern Baptist teacher and librarian suddenly find herself at the heart of a maelstrom, being referred to online as a pedophile, a groomer, and a member of the “woke” left? In a place in which outsiders hold less credibility than those with longstanding roots, how could so many native residents be convinced that pornography is being peddled to children by one of their own? Of course, the only way to create such an atmosphere is through fear and convincing lies.

“Book censors will often say there are books containing pornographic, or sexually explicit, material in children’s sections of the library to rile up public fear. They decry the need to protect children from the evil smut they say is next to Dr. Seuss books. As if a kid could be looking for The Very Hungry Caterpillar and whoops, there’s The Joy of Sex or The Kama Sutra right next to it. That’s never the case. Libraries have collection development policies for ordering books, and appropriate books are placed in the appropriate section. Public libraries do not purchase pornography. Adult books are not in the library’s children section, and to suggest otherwise is ridiculous.”

The American Library Association has guidelines for challenging books. This is essentially what Amanda tells those in attendance at the meeting called by book burners that evening. She is one of more than twenty other locals that show up for the same purpose.

What occurs at this meeting turns out to be a formula frequently used by the extreme right. A page of alarming material is blown up on a big screen for attendees to see. The presenter explains that this very book was found in an area easily accessed by children, right here in the public library in Livingston Parish. It’s a lie. The book isn’t there at all. But most people are decent and tell the truth most of the time; it doesn’t occur to audience members that this is a complete fabrication.

Why Amanda was chosen by these sinister visitors to be the sacrificial lamb is anyone’s guess. Perhaps she is more persuasive than others, or better organized in her remarks. Who knows? By the following day, social media has blown up with vile, horrifying accusations against her. Worst of all, there are people that she has known all of her life and considered friends, that add approving reactions to these poisonous lies. People she always believed would stand up for her, disappear instead, or join the opposition. Her family, her closest friends, and her fellow librarians across the country are the core of her defense, which eventually finds its way into the courtroom. Fellow educators at work? Not so much.

Although this takes place in the deep South, Amanda points out that these challenges are taking place across the country, with the ultimate goal of defunding public libraries. She mentioned a challenge in my hometown, Seattle, Washington, and I gasped. And so, this is an issue that must be monitored, and libraries and free speech defended, by all liberty loving readers everywhere.

The first half of the book is beautifully organized and compelling. I believe my jaw dropped when she wrote of sleeping with a shotgun under her bed, and checking for bombs or tracking devices on the undercarriage of her car. Death threats? Oh honey. Yes. The second half is also good, but could probably use a bit of tightening up. However, were I in her shoes, I would no doubt ramble endlessly.

This would make a terrific movie, and if well done, would certainly deliver the message to still more people.

I wholeheartedly recommend this memoir to all readers that support libraries and the First Amendment.

As someone working in a high school library, I love reading about the strength of Amanda Jones. I am so happy that we have people like her advocating for our libraries from the inside. The battle isn't one I'm unfamiliar with but it was an eye-opening read nonetheless

Thank you Netgalley for this wonderful opportunity to read Amanda’s story. That it had to be told is heartbreaking but her honesty and integrity shines in every single page and I appreciate her willingness to share her journey and speak out about the injustice of book banning nationwide. The audacity of absolute strangers attacking her personally with no remorse or shame absolutely infuriated me. I can’t believe we live in a time where libraries are under attack, that sharing information with the patrons we serve is illegal in some states, yet attacking a person you don’t even know on social media and spreading blatant lies about them is okay. How is this okay? My heart breaks for this librarian and the countless others who have gone through such horrible experiences simply by fighting for others rights to read. It’s a part of history that I hope one day will be remembered as absurd and ridiculous.

Amanda Jones has written her memoir of personal attacks on herself as a school librarian for daring to protect freedom to read and not put up with hate from the extreme right wing or Christian nationalists. As a former school librarian and public librarian who served on the American Library Council for three terms I appreciate her cogent arguments against attacks on public and school libraries. Unfortunately right wing politicians and people who dislike any books by non white or gay citizens or non Christians of their particular ideology forget that the American Constitution protected free speech and posited separation of church and state. I would equally oppose extremism and censorship from book banners on the left of the spectrum. Let people read and decide for themselves. Social media attacks on the life of anyone is beyond the bounds of civil life and should be taken offline. Thank you for your willingness to share the ups and downs of your struggles with these nasty attacks.

Amanda Jones gives a voice to all librarians across the country who are experiencing censorship in our libraries, both school and public, and who are being personally vilified. It was so good I stayed up way too late reading. There is truth telling from the first page as she tells what happened when she stood up against censorship in her community and then dared to stand up for herself. Amanda is a librarian's librarian and I enjoyed reading about her childhood reading life. She's also really funny. I recommend Amanda's book to better understand the national campaign against librarians and libraries, specifically what happened and is happening in Louisiana.

I foresee this being a very popular read for book clubs at the 2024 election approaches. I have been pretty actively following current events about book banning in the US over the last year or so, so I didn't find a ton in this book that was new to me. However, it does a great job of setting the landscape for someone who hasn't been eyes on.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for this ARC!

That Librarian is an inspiring and heartfelt story by Amanda Jones, who bravely stands up against the growing threats to inclusivity and diversity in libraries and schools across the U.S.

Jones’s journey began in 2022 when she heard about a local meeting to discuss “book content.” Knowing that these discussions often lead to the removal of books about LGBTQ+ themes, racism, and other topics some consider controversial, she felt she had to speak up. Her defense of having a wide range of books in the library led to harsh criticism, including being called a groomer and even receiving death threats. Despite these attacks, Jones didn’t back down.

What makes That Librarian special is Jones’s strong commitment to her beliefs, even when faced with intense challenges. She exposes the groups behind the book-banning campaigns and shows how some politicians use these efforts to promote intolerance. But this book isn’t just about her personal fight; it’s also a call for others to stand up for fairness and inclusion in literature.

Jones writes with honesty and passion, making her story not just about resistance but also about the importance of standing up for what’s right. She also provides a clear view of the larger crisis facing libraries and schools across the country, showing readers the ongoing battle against diverse representation in books.

That Librarian is more than just a memoir; it’s an important piece of activism for a more inclusive future. This book is essential reading for anyone who believes in the power of stories to change lives and the need to protect that power for everyone.

Amanda Jones is a true heroine trying to protect books against censorship.This was an emotional moving story of her brave fight I will be recommending That Librarian.#netgalley #bloomsbury

School librarian Amanda Jones has many faces. By standing up for her belief that libraries are for all people and that books should not be banned, folks in her Parrish (and well beyond) have made her out to be a groomer, a woke liberal, and even a pedophile. But with time and support from her family, friends, and the library community, Amanda Jones also wears the faces of advocate, activist, and author. She's been an inspiration for others who are also experiencing online bullying and hate, and even death threats. By telling her tale and offering her advice, Jones is a juggernaut of a librarian fighting the good fight for libraries and librarians all across the country.

This memoir highlights the moment Amanda Jones is thrust into the public spotlight because of a speech she made during a public library board meeting, speaking in defense of books that were being questioned by a group from Louisiana. This group then zeros in on her, making her the center of their anti-library campaign spreading lies and untruths that she is teaching anal sex at her elementary school library and giving pornographic books to children. The lies and posts are supported by strangers, but even people she had thought she was friends with.

While she does a terrific job explaining how libraries work behind the scenes, with policy making and collection development procedures, it was a bit boring for me. BUT, I am a librarian. I have worked in public libraries my entire career. I didn't need to know because I already knew. But from an outsider's perspective, this will be informational gold to them. I think it's great that she wants to outline and explain how the library works to make sure the appropriate books are in their appropriate spots within the library. The general reader will most likely appreciate this chapter in the book.

I did appreciate her backstory. I love that she admitted to voting for Trump in the 2016 election (to my own dismay) and her ignorance towards social situations like touching Black girls' hair. But it shows her progression and how she has learned, that she has flaws and is constantly learning and bettering herself. I saw in her somebody I can relate to, and that made her book heartwarming. She also gives advice and bullet points on how to navigate similar situations and better prepare yourself for a fight and struggles that may arise from speaking out about book banning. I found these tidbits of instruction dutiful and resourceful. I hope they aren't taken lightly from her readers.

This is not an entertaining book, but a book that shows you information and experience, which is like so many school and public librarians' experience. This is an ongoing fight of hers, it doesn't end when the last page is turned. I hope this book finds itself in the hands of people who are in it to win it, to overcome the adversaries and their book bans. It's a wealth of knowledge and experience that can make them a stronger ally for libraries.

A special thank you to Netgalley, Bloomsbury USA, and the indelible Amanda Jones, fierce library warrior and fighter. Keep fighting the good fight, this librarian stands with you.

As a retired high school English teaching librarian - That Librarian by Amanda Jones is a title that I couldn’t resist. And while I’m glad I did, in many respects I found it difficult to read. Amanda Jones, a public school librarian, showed up to speak at a board meeting about her reservations regarding book censorship. She was subsequently attacked via social meeting - dishonestly and inaccurately - in a clearly calculated movement. She experienced death threats, worried for her job, for her family, and for the patrons and readers she valued so highly.
Jones accomplishes several things in her sharing of this difficult experience. She illustrates well her vision as a librarian and as a parent for wanting all kids to be able to find themselves in her library collection. I love how she reviews her own history as a reader and also cites her training to make an effective case. She also depicts the power of abusing social media. Even though I know, I was stunned at how quickly the movement against her built on social media. The destruction was profoundly difficult to read about. As a librarian who was often asked whether I had to really go to school to do my job, I appreciate how thoroughly Jones outlines how librarians are trained to fulfill the position. The lack of respect she receives is palpable, but it is balanced out with stories of respect. I also respect how Jones responds to the call to fight against censorship.
As a school librarian, I had the privilege of working cooperatively with other teachers and their students on a variety of challenged and banned books projects and presentations. I found it one of the most eye opening projects for the students and one of the most fulfilling for me. I am stunned at how much the attitude toward censorship has changed so quickly. Newer teachers often avoided tackling the topic head on. For the first time in my 26 year career as a librarian, a parent requested a copy of my shelf list. Nothing came of it, but the request itself seemed portentous to one who has never had a book challenged. LIke Jones, I believe in the power of books and reading to change lives and that book banning has never historically lent itself to positive cultural changes. I appreciate Amanda Jones’ commitment to her patrons and her willingness to share her experiences in That Librarian in such an honest way to even further the cause.

THAT LIBRARIAN by Amanda Jones is a LibraryReads selection for August. Look at the cover – do you see a metaphorical caped crusader? In this text, Jones, an award-winning librarian and former President of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians, describes "The Fight Against Book Banning in America" and the harassment she endured after speaking out at a local public library meeting in support of keeping LGBTQ books in the collection. I had the privilege recently of seeing Jones on a School Library Journal TeenLive! panel with Debbie Levy, author of A Dangerous Idea about the Scopes Trial roughly 100 years ago. Sadly, those long ago attempts to restrict student access to ideas offer many parallels to today's efforts to ban books. For example, much of this discussion is happening in small communities, but has a national impact. Both authors were stressing how together we can overcome these prejudices and how concerned citizens, especially librarians, authors, and book publishers, are working hard to protect young people and their right to read. Jones has been extremely brave in publicizing her story and her efforts to hold her detractors accountable in court. She says, "everyone in the United States should stand up for intellectual freedom and stand against censorship..." and offers suggestions (see especially chapter 15) for local action in your own community. Follett's Titlewave offers a free, downloadable Reading Group Guide for THAT LIBRARIAN; one suggested eye-opening exercise is to list books that have had an impact on your life and then research whether they have been banned or challenged. Jones references many supportive groups, some of which are PEN America (exhibit coming soon to Austin’s Henry Ransom Center); EveryLibrary, and the American Library Association which offers resources at Unite Against Book Bans. Library Journal gave a starred review to THAT LIBRARIAN, calling it a "essential reading" and Booklist- in another starred review - said, "Jones is an inspiration to everyone combating book bans, and her memoir/guidebook should be available to all." I concur.

This book hit me in all the feels. As a librarian myself, these last few years have become unpredictable. I applaud Amanda Jones for her strength, fortitude, and bravery in standing up for our First Amendment rights and freedom to access materials on all topics. I am a school librarian and actively involved in our public libraries in the area. Watching some of the board meetings of our public libraries, I have seen and heard many of the same biased and prejudiced comments when it comes to materials in the library, programs offered, and library staff duties and responsibilities. Reading about Amanda's experience, I went through so many emotions. This could be me. This could be anyone who stands up for the freedom to read. I have been lucky not to experience any of this, but knowing it is a possibility is enough to give anyone anxiety. For the last few years, I have struggled with those emotions and Amanda Jones gives me faith that there are still people who can rise above the challenges and make a difference. Many do not have the strength and walk away from the profession due to stress, anxiety, and defeat. This story is inspirational and gives me hope that together we can protect patrons' freedom to read. Thank you Amanda Jones for writing this book and shining a light on what librarians work so hard to protect each day!