Since 2021, a small group of individuals have been challenging books at the Columbia County Libraries. Over 90% of book challenges have targeted LGBTQ+ content. At least four challenges were from a right-wing political action group. One candidate for political office even submitted a book challenge for a book that Columbia County Library didn’t even have in its possession. When librarians refused to censor, county officials rewrote library policy in September 2024, mandated the use of a Moms for Liberty-linked database (BookLooks), and moved dozens of books to the adult section.
Legal experts, including the ACLU of Georgia and the Freedom to Read Foundation, have warned these actions violate constitutional rights. Even after BookLooks was abandoned, LGBTQ+ titles continued to be pushed to higher age categories.
Now, Columbia County is breaking away from the Greater Clarks Hill Regional Library System (effective 1/1/2026). This is their last chance to get it right.
The Freedom To Read Coalition of Columbia County (FTRCCC) believes families—not the government—should decide what their children read. Libraries must uphold professional standards, support free thought, and reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
