Library Futures has released Imagine IF: The Game, a free web-based tool designed to help public librarians handle censorship attempts and patron conflicts. The choose-your-own-adventure game features scenarios drawn from real library encounters, such as harassment over book choices and demands to remove titles. It aims to build skills for protecting intellectual freedom amid rising challenges.
Public librarians increasingly face pressure from patrons and lawmakers over book content. The American Library Association reported 2,452 unique titles challenged across the US in 2024, with underreporting likely. Over 40 bills targeting library materials appeared in the first three months of 2026, including Georgia's Senate Bill 74 and Iowa's House File 2309, some proposing criminal liability for librarians. A survey found 75% of librarians concerned about state legislation affecting their work, leading to self-censorship fears among staff. Library Futures developed Imagine IF to address this, offering role-playing practice in de-escalation. ALA President Sam Helmick, whose 2015 presentation inspired the game, said, “It’s great because you can experience these interactions without paying the tuition of having the actual in-person experience.” The game starts with the Library Bill of Rights review and includes comic-style scenarios illustrated by Kenny Keil, encouraging players to balance patron concerns with access principles. As an open educational resource, Imagine IF is available for free use and adaptation on the Library Futures website.
