The “Age-Appropriate Materials Act” in Action: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Censored Classroom Libraries in Tennessee

• In Event: Literacy, Equity, and Local Impact

Abstract

This mixed-methods analysis investigates elementary classroom libraries under Tennessee’s Age-Appropriate Materials Act of 2022. Quantitative analysis of a database of published classroom libraries revealed a significant negative relationship between classroom library size and the percentage of students receiving free and reduced lunch. The qualitative analysis demonstrated differences in author and character representation and thematic content between common and challenged books in Tennessee.

Authors

• Bonnie Anthony Barksdale, Middle Tennessee State University

• Janna McClain, Middle Tennessee State University

• Katie Schrodt, Middle Tennessee State University

• Bill Barksdale, Purdue University Global