At a Glance
- Date: May 2, 2026
- Time: 5:00 PM
- Event: Film screening + panel discussion
- Cost: Free (registration required)
- Focus: Book bans, censorship, and free speech
- Location: Esperanza Peace & Justice Center
The Award-Winning Documentary “The Librarians” Brings the National Book Ban Debate to a San Antonio Audience
A national conversation around censorship and book bans is coming to San Antonio with a free screening of the award-winning documentary The Librarians on Saturday, May 2 at 5 p.m. at Esperanza Peace & Justice Center, 922 San Pedro Avenue. The film, directed by Kim A. Snyder, takes viewers inside the growing movement of librarians who have become frontline figures in the fight for democracy, free speech, and access to information.
Inside the Story: Book Bans and the Krause List
The documentary examines the rise of censorship efforts across the country, including in Texas, where the “Krause List” has targeted more than 850 books focused on race and LGBTQIA+ stories. As tensions escalate, the film connects local school and library board conflicts to what it describes as a broader, coordinated push to remove certain materials from public access. Librarians featured in the film share their experiences facing backlash, harassment, and even job loss while advocating for the freedom to read.
Panel Discussion to Bring Local Voices
Following the screening, attendees will take part in a live panel discussion and Q&A moderated by Norma Cantú, a distinguished humanities professor at Trinity University. Panelists include Anel Flores, whose work explores topics currently under scrutiny; Suzette Baker, featured in the film after being fired for refusing to remove books; and Lucy Ibarra Podmore, chair of the Texas Library Association Legislative Committee. The discussion is expected to focus on real-world impacts, advocacy efforts, and what communities can do to support libraries.
Event Schedule
The evening will include:
- 5:00 PM – Welcome reception with light refreshments
- 5:45 PM – Screening of The Librarians (92 minutes)
- 7:15 PM – Community plática with panel discussion and Q&A
Free Event With Limited Space
This event is free but space is limited, encouraging early registration. Community members can reserve a spot here: https://bit.ly/TheLibrariansEspe
