Public Records Request: Book Challenges in Nashville Public Schools

To Whom It May Concern:

Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records:

Copies of written and electronic complaints and challenges for removal, reclassification, or other reconsideration of instructional and library materials including books, ebooks, and audiobooks from January 1, 2000 (or as early as available) to the present, as well as records, petitions, correspondence, and the outcomes related to these challenges. These complaint forms may be categorized as “Request for reconsideration of materials” or “Request for review of building level recommendation”. These are sometimes referred to as “book challenges.”

As we believe these records will benefit the public interest and inform public understanding of book challenges across the U.S., we request any fees associated with this request be waived. We are planning to make our findings publicly available. If fees cannot be waived, please inform me in advance. Please know that I am a member of the media, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.

If possible, I would appreciate the corresponding records shared via email with text documents or clear PDFs. If you cannot reply electronically, please let me know and I can provide a mailing address. If you expect a significant delay in responding to this request, please contact me with information about when I might expect copies or the ability to inspect the requested records.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 7 business days, as the statute requires.

Sincerely,

Kent Hoover, a citizen of Tennessee, in coordination with Emma Rubin.