Banned Books Week (BBW) is a celebration of the freedom to read.
According to the American Library Association, "[librarians and library employees] believe that free communication is essential to the preservation of a free society and a creative culture" (The Freedom to Read Statement, June 30, 2004). The freedom to read promotes intellectual engagement within societies. As members of a democratic system of government, having the intellectual freedom to choose one's reading material promotes responsible, well-informed self-government.
In the past year, 729 library materials (not just books!) were challenged formally and/or banned for many reasons including being sexually explicit, anti-police, containing profanity or including LGBTQIA content.
While books comprise the majority of challenges, exhibits, programs, meeting rooms and films are also at risk.
Those who value intellectual freedom (like libraries and universities) must be forever vigilant of attempts to ban reading/viewing material!
This week, read some of the most challenged/banned books from the library's collection.
The Hate U Give by
The Bluest Eye by
The Complete Persepolis by
The Kite Runner by
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