Texas Freedom to Read Project has once again partnered with EveryLibrary to survey Texas school board candidates about their positions on school book bans, the freedom to read, and the value of libraries and public schools in Texas. Surveys were sent to candidates for the May elections in the 150 largest school districts in Texas. Thirty-one respondents filled out the survey completely.

This is the second time Texas Freedom to Read Project and EveryLibrary have conducted this survey. In 2024, 22 candidates completed the survey, allowing us to identify several trends that have since shaped political battles around school library books.

Whereas 2024’s survey revealed deep divisions in the ways Texans approach restrictions on instructional materials and library books, this year’s survey suggests a growing consensus on the value of libraries and librarians in schools as well as a recognition of the importance of the freedom to read for Texas students.

The FBISD School Board of Trustees will conduct a Special Called Workshop meeting on Wednesday, June 5 at 6PM, to receive, consider and discuss information related to EF Local: Instructional Resources (aka classroom and school library books). This Workshop is the result of the vote by the FBISD Board on April 8, to postpone further discussion and revision to the EF Local Policy until after a workshop could be conducted to gather more information to inform and guide policy making.