FTLF Blog
By Rory Steele, Executive Director, Freedom to Learn Foundation
Protecting Students’ Right to Read
The Freedom to Learn Foundation (FTLF) is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with authors, publishers, educators, parents, and students in one of the most consequential fights for intellectual freedom in a generation.
As a key sponsor and financial contributor, we are deeply committed to the landmark litigation challenging Iowa’s Senate File 496—a sweeping book ban that threatens the very principles of free expression and equitable access to ideas.
Why This Case Matters
In May 2023, Iowa enacted SF 496, a law prohibiting any K–12 school library from maintaining books that describe a sex act, and banning titles addressing sexual orientation or gender identity through sixth grade—regardless of literary, historical, or educational value.
The statute threatened teachers and librarians with discipline or loss of licensure for inadvertent violations.
Its reach has been devastating: hundreds of books were stripped from shelves, from I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Beloved to Maus, The Handmaid’s Tale, and even health and safety guides.
As Judge Stephen Locher observed, SF 496 “makes no attempt to evaluate a book’s literary, political, artistic, or scientific value,” forcing the removal of works that are neither obscene nor inappropriate but essential for students’ growth
Progress in the Courts
Since our partners, including Penguin Random House, leading authors, parents, students, and the Iowa State Education Association filed suit in November 2023, the courts have repeatedly recognized the dangers posed by this law:
In July 2025, FTLF proudly joined a coalition of leading organizations—including the American Booksellers for Free Expression, Association of American Publishers, Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, Independent Book Publishers Association, Educational Book & Media Association, Half Price Books, Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association, Sisters in Crime, and our close partner Freedom to Learn Advocates—in submitting a powerful amicus brief to the Eighth Circuit
These filings underscore the case’s national stakes and of the chilling effect SF 496 imposes on writers, publishers, and librarians everywhere. The appeal is expected to be heard later this year, and the outcome will shape the future of free inquiry in schools across the country.
Our Commitment and Partners
FTLF’s support extends beyond financial contributions. We are amplifying the voices of librarians, educators, and students who deserve the freedom to read without fear. This effort is powered by remarkable allies:
Together, we are making clear: attempts to label essential books as “pornographic” or “unfit” cannot override constitutional rights or erase the stories that shape students’ understanding of themselves and the world.
What’s Next — and How You Can Help
The fight to secure lasting protection for students’ right to read is far from over. As the Eighth Circuit prepares to weigh this case, we must ensure that the voices of educators, librarians, and young readers remain front and center.
Here’s how you can stand with us:
FTLF was founded on a simple but profound belief: every student deserves access to knowledge, and every teacher and librarian should be free to guide them without fear.
By defending this principle in Iowa, we are setting a precedent for classrooms and libraries nationwide.
Together, we can ensure that no law silences curiosity, erases history, or denies students the freedom to learn.
With Appreciation,
Rory Steele
Executive Director
Freedom to Learn Foundation
