“These Books Are a Proxy for Human Beings”: Inside Alabama’s Grassroots Fight Against Book Bans

Prattville, Alabama, also known as “The Fountain City,” is not only a charming town with an abundance of artisanal wells, it’s also ground zero for book banning efforts across the state. And it’s home to Angie Hayden, a freedom-to-read advocate from the nonprofit Read Freely Alabama. 

Angie's advocacy started at a place her children always loved, the local library. She was shocked to see extremist groups trying to force the removal of books, specifically targeting LGBTQ ones. The topic of queer individuals holds a special place in her heart, and she was galvanized into action after witnessing this injustice. So she showed up at a city counsel meeting to demonstrate that there’s more than one kind of concerned parent in Prattville. 

Not much long after, Angie joined forces with Amber Frey, Krysti Shallenberger, Jessica Hayes, and Sam Olsen to form Read Freely Alabama. Their grassroots group operates as a volunteer network, and it is fiscally sponsored by EveryLibrary Institute to support its mission.

Starting a nonprofit is never an easy task, and it is especially challenging when the opposition has a head start. Groups of book banners often masquerade as grassroots but are actually backed by bigger, more well funded organizations. “They had perfected their techniques,” Angie says. “They generate fear and outrage, and that has a snowball effect. The first year was like a water hose trying to catch up to that, playing defense and combatting disinformation.” 

After getting into the groove of fighting for the freedom to read, the group started to have some victories. Through their tireless efforts, they managed to galvanize the parents of Alabama, spreading from one town to across the state in two year’s time. “We accidentally started a state-wide movement. People are very receptive, even in a conservative state.” 

The Read Freely Alabama membership has been clutch when it comes to making a difference in the state. They played a massive role in fighting against HB 4, a bill that would amend criminal obscenity law to apply to public and school libraries and their staff, putting them in jail for their work. The group rallied and put pressure on lawmakers. The bill ultimately did not pass, dying in committee. 

Another success they’ve experienced occurred when the Fairhope Public Library refused to remove books from the YA section some considered sexually explicit and subsequently lost $22,000 in state funding. Read Freely Alabama started a fundraiser and their members rose to the occasion, donating $42,000, higher than their goal in less than a week. Fairhope Public Library can now operate independently for the next two years. 

Encouraging others to join the fight for the freedom to read isn’t always easy, however. But Angie and the crew have found ways to help motivate people. “People can feel overwhelmed about getting involved in this political climate, but this particular issue is something manageable and people can take a step and feel like they’re making an impact.”

Traditionally, people in Alabama don’t like government intrusion, so they’ve found advocates across the political spectrum. “They understand it’s not just about those books; it’s about the right to read, a fundamentally American concept we should all be defending.” So they craft their messaging with care so that people from all walkways can get on board with their mission.

Read Freely Alabama recently filed an amicus brief supporting Florida plaintiffs in Parnell v. School Board of Escambia County, arguing the U.S. Constitution protects the right to receive information, including in public and school libraries, against book removals. The group is hopeful the 11th Circuit Court will be receptive and want to add their voice to the national conversation on the right to read. 

If they are unsuccessful, Angie and the folks at Read Freely Alabama are concerned there will be more censorship. “They’ll start with a book the public is okay letting go of, which unfortunately is usually about transgender issues.” She then describes how they want to very tightly control what materials are in a publicly funded institution, deciding whose stories are acceptable in public spaces, thus who themselves are acceptable in society.  

Read Freely Alabama co-founder Sam Olsen says it best: “These books are a proxy for human beings.” Censorship extends beyond the page and attempts to erase certain peoples. 

While awaiting the court’s decision, Angie is focusing on gearing up for the next legislative session. She is anticipating HB 4 to make a return and is prepping to activate the membership to send emails, post cards, and messages however they can to the legislature. She’ll also be tabling at events and be a featured speaker for a variety of locations. A busy season for Angie and the Read Freely group!

Another upcoming concern is that the Alabama Public Library System (APLS) board may expand its attacks on libraries not bowing to pressure. This would be particularly disastrous for smaller, underfunded libraries in low income areas. They are preparing to fundraise to help support individual libraries if necessary.

Long term, Angie wants to see people stand up to these censorship efforts to drive extremist groups away. She also hopes state lawmakers take a stand for libraries and librarians, as well as for the people whose stories are being targeted. “They should stand up for ALL of their citizens,” she says.

On a final note, the folks at Read Freely want to encourage people to get involved in some way, especially those that live in Alabama. Visit their website at www.readfreelyalabama.org and follow them on social media (Instagram, Facebook). “We are always happy to speak to anyone who wants to help or any librarians or staff who need help.”

At its core, Read Freely Alabama’s work is a reminder that ordinary people can push back against extraordinary pressure and win. In a moment when censorship feels relentless, Angie Hayden and her fellow advocates prove that showing up, building community, and refusing silence can protect both books and the people who see themselves in them. Their fight is local, but its impact and its lesson are unmistakably national.