Normally, phrases like “front lines” or “boots on the ground” aren’t what you’d associate with the peaceful world of a school librarian. Yet, for the nine courageous individuals featured in Kim A. Snyder’s compelling new documentary, “The Librarians,” these terms have become disturbingly relevant to their daily work across the United States.
These dedicated librarians are finding themselves under fire at school board meetings in various states, facing accusations of “grooming” children through what critics deem “pornographic” material. Often, the books targeted deal with vital themes of race, sexuality, or gender. Even innocent picture books, simply depicting naked children, animals, or statues, have provoked outrage.
Snyder, known for her documentary “Us Kids,” meticulously chronicles these battles in Florida, New Jersey, Louisiana, and Texas. In Texas, for instance, a staggering list of 850 titles, compiled by State Representative Matt Krause in 2021, was used to systematically remove books from school libraries. Organizations like Moms for Liberty are actively mobilizing to influence school boards, advocating for book removals by citing religious texts as the ultimate standard for all literature. It’s a baffling scenario where even the Bible is controversially referenced as the benchmark for nonfiction writing.
What’s truly at stake are fundamental First Amendment rights, and these librarians are depicted as crucial defenders. The film even shows one school employee in a silhouetted disguise, highlighting the intense hostility and threats they endure.
Many of the women profiled in “The Librarians” lost their jobs simply for refusing to remove books or even for questioning these directives. This palpable sense of urgency makes their stories of resilience and bravery all the more inspiring. From its beautifully nostalgic opening credits, reminiscent of old-school card catalogs, to its insightful use of archival footage and deeply personal accounts, “The Librarians” is a meticulously crafted and profoundly unsettling film.
The Librarians
Not rated. Running time: 1 hour 32 minutes. Now showing in theaters.