Just Getting Better

What happens when you stand up for what you believe in, even when it feels like the world is against you?

In this week’s riveting episode, Amanda Jones, the 2021 National School Librarian of the Year and author of That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America, joins Michelle and Julia to share her journey from advocate to target in the fight against book bans.

Amanda shares her harrowing experience of standing up against censorship at a local library board meeting, which ignited a targeted campaign of harassment and threats against her. This candid and courageous conversation unpacks the rise of book banning in America and its impact on free speech, diversity, and education.

Amanda’s story is a testament to the strength it takes to fight for what’s right, even when faced with overwhelming adversity. With thoughtful insights and a call to action, this episode sheds light on the broader cultural challenges of misinformation, mob mentality, and the critical role of libraries in fostering inclusion and intellectual freedom.

The Cost of Speaking Out:
Amanda recounts her experience of addressing book bans at a public library board meeting and the personal attacks that followed, highlighting the real-world consequences of standing up against censorship.

Understanding the Rise of Book Bans:
The hosts and Amanda discuss how dark money groups and extremist ideologies are fueling a resurgence in book banning, particularly targeting LGBTQ+ and BIPOC stories.

Navigating Harassment with Resilience:
Amanda shares how she found strength in her faith, community, and a commitment to lead by example, even as she faced targeted harassment and threats to her safety.

The Role of Libraries in Democracy:
This discussion emphasizes why libraries are essential for intellectual freedom, inclusion, and democracy, and how book bans undermine these principles.

A Call to Critical Thinking:
Michelle and Julia explore the need for critical thinking in today’s media landscape, urging listeners to question sources, reject mob mentality, and value nuanced discussions.

Listen to this impactful episode to better understand the fight against censorship and the role we all play in preserving intellectual freedom. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to amplify stories of courage and resilience.

Amanda Jones has been an educator for 22 years and is the President of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians. She was the 2021 School Library Journal Co-Librarian of the Year, 2021 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, and 2020 Louisiana School Librarian of the Year. Amanda is a sought-after keynote speaker at national and international conferences. Amanda co-founded the Livingston Parish Library Alliance to defeat censorship attempts in her community and is a founding member of the Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship, which fights against censorship efforts across the state. She lives in Livingston Parish, Louisiana

CONNECT WITH AMANDA:

• Instagram: @thatlibrarianjones

RESOURCES:

Amanda Jones’s book: That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America

PEN America report on book bans in U.S. schools

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.