The Freedom to Read Foundation today issued a FOIA request to the Chicago Public Schools for all documents related to the removal of the graphic novel "Persepolis" from district schools.

Additionally, the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom has written a letter urging CPS to reinstate the book for district students.

The OIF Blog has more on the situation, including text of the letter to CPS:

As documented by DNAinfo.com and other blogs, the Chicago Public Schools yesterday ordered all copies of the award-winning graphic novel Persepolis out of schools district-wide. Initially the order seemed to have applied to libraries, but the head of school libraries has since issued a directive that, pursuant to its collection development policy, the book is to remain on library shelves.

OIF staff spoke with a CPS official this afternoon, she was confirmed that the books were removed due to what she termed "graphic illustrations and language" and concerns about "developmental preparedness" and "student readiness." While still in school libraries, they are out of classroom libraries and teaching curriculum until they can "control" how the book is being presented. She said there was no timeline for CPS's evaluation. CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett has also issued a memo to CPS principals regarding the removal.

Follow @FTRF and @OIF for the latest on this developing situation.