Several librarians across the United States are running for state legislative seats in 2026 elections. Motivated by anti-library legislation and book bans, they aim to advocate for public institutions from within government. Their campaigns highlight libraries' role in fostering education and community access.
Librarians like India May in Iowa, Michelle Conners in Maine, Matt Gile in Vermont, Lindsey Patrick-Wright in Tennessee, and Ellen Paul in Connecticut have entered politics this year. They cite ongoing attacks on libraries, including book censorship efforts and restrictive laws, as key reasons for their runs. For instance, May, a former rural library director, filed to represent Iowa House District 58 after advocating against book bans at a town hall. Her election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.
