Texas School Book Bans Reach 8,193 in 2025-26
Texas school districts removed 8,193 books during the 2025-26 academic year, a total more than four times higher than the prior year and the largest among states. Nationally, PEN America counted 11,982 removals over the past year, the highest figure since its tracking began in 2021. Records from PEN America and the Texas Freedom to Read Project show Texas districts are turning more often to artificial intelligence when deciding which books to remove.
Texas districts pulled 8,193 titles during the 2025-26 school year, a figure exceeding the prior year by more than four times and the highest state total. Nationwide, PEN America recorded 11,982 removals over the past year, the most since its count started in 2021.
Public records from PEN America and the Texas Freedom to Read Project indicate that Texas school systems are relying more frequently on artificial intelligence as they assess which books to withdraw.
The removals could affect Texas students, educators, librarians, and families by changing which materials are available in schools. If AI tools play a larger role in reviews, decisions may become faster but less transparent, potentially fueling disputes over accuracy and local control. Publishers and authors might also see reduced access to school audiences, while the record national numbers may intensify broader debates about how districts balance parental concerns, educational standards, and free inquiry.