About the ReadSafe Ratings Program
What is ReadSafe Ratings?
ReadSafe Ratings is a voluntary, community-led book content advisory system designed to help authors protect their work, support libraries, and empower readers. It offers clear, age-appropriate content ratings—similar to those used in the film and video game industries—to help books stay accessible in the face of increasing censorship laws, especially in Texas.
Is this censorship?
No.
ReadSafe Ratings is the opposite of censorship. It’s voluntary, transparent, and author-approved. It empowers authors to clearly communicate their book's content while helping libraries and schools make informed decisions—before a single complaint removes a title from shelves.
Why is this necessary now?
Texas laws SB13 and SB412 make it easier than ever for books to be banned or challenged by a single complaint, often without context. ReadSafe Ratings gives authors a preemptive defense by clearly labeling content—just like parental advisory labels for music or ESRB ratings for video games.
Who is this for?
This program is primarily designed for:
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Authors, especially indie and small press, to protect their books and sales
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Librarians and educators, to make confident acquisition decisions
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Parents and readers, to better understand book content before purchase or checkout
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Booksellers and retailers, to use ratings for inventory, shelving, or digital tagging
How does the rating system work?
Books are evaluated and assigned:
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One primary age rating:
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C (Children under 6)
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G (All Ages)
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PG (Some Guidance Suggested)
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PG-13 (Teens)
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R (Mature Readers 17+)
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NC-17 (Adult Only)
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Up to three additional content labels, such as:
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EL: Explicit Language
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V: Violence or Gore
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SC: Sexual Content
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DA: Drug/Alcohol Use
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ST: Sensitive Topics (e.g., abuse, trauma)
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Who determines the ratings?
Ratings are evaluated by trained reviewers following a standardized AI-assisted process, supported by human quality checks to ensure accuracy, fairness, and consistency.
How long does it take to get a rating?
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Standard turnaround: 7–10 business days
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Premium turnaround: 72 hours
What does it cost?
Pricing Plans:
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Basic – $25: Content rating, 3 content tags, digital badge
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Standard – $50: + social media graphic, PDF certificate, listed in Rated Directory
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Premium – $100: + consultation, 5 printed stickers, featured listing, 72hr turnaround
Texas Authors Museum Members get FREE ratings (1–3 books) through July 1 based on membership level.
Where will my rating be used?
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You'll receive a digital badge for your website, retailer page, or back cover
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Your book will be listed in our Rated Books Directory
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Option to receive physical rating stickers for printed copies
How do libraries and schools use the ratings?
Libraries can use ReadSafe Ratings to:
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Easily filter or flag books for specific age groups
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Confidently select books for collections amid rising challenges
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Respond to parental concerns with transparency and consistency
Does this apply only to Texas authors?
We’re launching in Texas first due to urgent legislative threats like SB13 and SB412—but the ReadSafe Ratings program is designed for authors everywhere.
While the initial focus is on helping Texas authors navigate new censorship laws, authors outside of Texas—across the U.S. and internationally—are welcome and encouraged to participate. Book bans and content challenges are spreading beyond state borders, and this proactive, transparent rating system offers a valuable tool for all authors who want to protect their work, support informed readership, and stand up for creative freedom.
How do I submit my book?
Visit the Submit Your Book page and complete the online form. You’ll need:
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A digital copy of your book (PDF, DOCX, or EPUB)
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Author contact info
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Book genre, description, and intended audience
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation and your rating within your selected turnaround time.
Is this connected to the Texas Authors Museum & Institute of History?
Yes!
ReadSafe Ratings is a program of the Texas Authors Museum & Institute of History, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Texas literature and defending authors’ rights.
Still have questions?
Email us at