Ohio Faith Leaders Condemn Hate-Driven Beachwood Library Book Burning

A man in Beachwood, Ohio, checked out 100 books from the Cuyahoga County Public Library focusing on Jewish, African American, and LGBTQ+ history and education, then posted videos on social media showing the books being burned, sparking widespread condemnation. The Princeton University Bridging Divides Initiative alerted local officials and the library about the incident, which has been investigated by Beachwood Police. Faith leaders from the Interfaith Group Against Hate (IGAH) and local politicians strongly denounced the act, calling it a hate crime and an attack on community values of inclusivity and compassion. In response, IGAH organized book drives and rallies to replace the burned books and promote understanding, with commitments to donate ten books for every one burned. Community members and leaders emphasized that such hateful acts only strengthen their resolve to support targeted groups and combat censorship and bigotry. The incident has galvanized Northeast Ohio residents to actively counter hate with education and solidarity.