Bookshops, Libraries and Book Bans — 2026-09-11

Top developments

US Public Libraries Report "Breaking Point" Amid Ideological Attacks

A new report highlights that US public libraries are at a "breaking point," detailing verbal and physical threats to librarians, funding cuts, and the proliferation of book bans. This comes as PEN America data shows 6,870 book bans enacted during the 2024-25 school year across 23 states. The study underscores the growing tension between local censorship efforts and the fundamental role of libraries as democratic institutions

Barnes & Noble Opens 28 New Stores in 2026

Contrasting with library struggles, Barnes & Noble has opened 28 new stores this year across 15 states and Washington, DC, bringing its total to over 720 locations. This expansion signals a continued comeback for brick-and-mortar retail, with the chain planning dozens more openings nationwide. The growth stands in stark contrast to the struggles of independent bookstores in certain regions and the budgetary pressures on public libraries

Liverpool Council Plans Cuts to Library Opening Hours

Liverpool Council is planning major changes to its library services, including reduced opening hours and more closure days for some branches, as part of a broader cost-saving strategy. While some libraries may see extended hours, the overall move reflects the financial strain on local authorities in the UK. These measures follow similar moves in Northumberland, where a "sweeping revamp" of library services was approved to cut costs

French Independent Bookshops Struggle in Paris Suburbs

Independent bookshops in the "grande couronne" (outer suburbs) of Paris are facing significant difficulties due to competition from Amazon, rising costs, and less loyal customers. Some older booksellers are closing permanently at retirement without finding successors. This trend highlights the vulnerability of small retail in peri-urban areas despite France's robust fixed-price book law (prix unique du livre)

Local view

UK: In Northumberland, local media reports that council cabinet members approved cost-cutting changes described as necessary to "modernise" library services. Stakeholders are concerned about the impact on community access, particularly in rural areas where libraries serve as vital social hubs.

France: Actualitté and TV5Monde highlight the precarious situation of independent bookstores in the Île-de-France region outside central Paris. The press notes that while Paris maintains a high density of bookshops, suburban stores are increasingly unable to compete with e-commerce giants, leading to a consolidation of the market and loss of local cultural anchors.

Context & numbers

• Book Bans: 6,870 book bans were enacted in the US during the 2024-25 school year, according to PEN America. Over 40% of these occurred in Florida.
• Challenges: The American Library Association tracked 4,235 unique titles challenged in 2025.
• Retail Expansion: Barnes & Noble has expanded to over 720 stores, adding roughly 28 new locations in 2026 alone.
• Library Budgets: Dallas Public Library faces potential cuts to avoid branch closures, with city leaders asking for $2.6 million in reductions. Residents recently voted in polls showing 76% opposition to closures.

On the radar

• Long Beach Budget Vote: The Long Beach City Council is scheduled to vote on the 2026-27 fiscal year budget, which includes potential cuts to library and park services. Residents have been actively making their priorities known ahead of the vote.
• Marshall Library Funding: The Marshall City Council in Minnesota will discuss possible funding cuts from Lyon County that could reduce operations at the Marshall-Lyon County Library.