ALA Reports 4,235 Books Targeted for Censorship

Butler County, Kansas, commissioners unanimously postponed a decision on proposed data-center rules until Oct. 27 after residents raised concerns about noise, water use, power demand, rural character, environmental effects and emergency preparedness. Raleigh leaders are considering a six-month pause on approvals for new data centers larger than 10,000 square feet to study impacts and consider regulations; community advocates want a longer pause and more public input. The proposal cites demands on electricity and water infrastructure, noise, light pollution, land use and other environmental effects, while the mayor says the city aims to support the technology sector without harming residents or disrupting existing operations. Separately, Banned Books Week is highlighting access to books and intellectual freedom, and the American Library Association reported 4,235 titles targeted for censorship last year, up from 2,452 in 2024.