U.S. Naval Academy Removes Nearly 400 DEI-Related Books From Nimitz Library Following Executive Orders
In a significant development reflecting the Trump administration’s push to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programming from the federal government, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) has removed nearly 400 books from its Nimitz Library, according to reports from the Associated Press and The Daily Caller News Foundation.
This action follows the February closure of the Academy’s DEI offices, a move aligned with President Donald Trump’s broader agenda to reform the military and federal institutions by eliminating what he has described as “divisive and wasteful” ideological programs.
Book Review Follows Executive Orders
USNA officials began reviewing library materials late last week after receiving directives to evaluate their holdings for compliance with recently issued executive orders. Approximately 900 titles were initially flagged for further review, with 400 books identified for immediate removal as of Monday.
A Navy spokesman confirmed the removal in a statement:
“We can confirm the U.S. Naval Academy has removed nearly 400 books from their Nimitz Library collection in order to ensure compliance with all directives outlined in Executive Orders issued by the President.”
The review is part of an overarching federal mandate to eliminate materials perceived to be in conflict with the “Restoring America’s Fighting Force” and “Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness” executive orders—both signed by President Trump earlier this year.
A Shift Toward Military Readiness Over Ideological Programming
These executive orders direct the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to dismantle all DEI infrastructure within their agencies, including “any vestiges of DEI offices, such as sub-offices, programs, elements, or initiatives” that promote race-based preferences or gender ideology.
According to the White House, the intent behind these orders is to restore meritocracy, eliminate politically charged programming, and focus the military’s mission on combat readiness and lethality.
The orders also emphasize removing all training materials, guidance documents, and official publications that promote what the administration has characterized as “divisive concepts.”
Naval Academy Library Holds Over Half a Million Volumes
The Nimitz Library is a cornerstone of academic life at the Naval Academy, housing:
- 590,000 print books
- 322 databases
- Over 5,000 print journals and magazines
These resources support the intellectual development of Midshipmen, the future leaders of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. According to USNA leadership, the goal is to align these resources with the institution’s mission to develop leaders who are morally and mentally prepared for the demands of military service—not political activism.
“The Naval Academy’s mission is to develop Midshipmen morally, mentally and physically in order to cultivate honorable leaders, create a culture of excellence, and prepare them for careers of service to our country,” said the Navy spokesperson.
Public Reaction and Transparency
At this time, the list of titles removed from the library has not been made publicly available, though interest in the specifics of the removals is expected to grow.
Critics of the move argue that it may limit access to diverse perspectives and academic freedom, while supporters applaud the return to a merit-first, mission-focused culture in military education and training.
Looking Ahead
The removal of DEI-themed materials at the Naval Academy is likely just the beginning, as similar reviews are expected across other service academies and federal training programs in the coming months.
President Trump has made it clear that restoring military excellence, free from ideological interference, is a core component of his administration’s agenda. The dismantling of DEI offices, trainings, and educational materials is not only symbolic but also structural, aiming to shape the next generation of military leaders under the principles of unity, merit, and operational readiness.
Further details—including a public release of removed book titles or additional policy shifts—are anticipated in the weeks ahead.