Banned Books Week is September 18– 24

This annual event celebrates the freedom to read and ‘highlights the value of free and open access to information.’ The first Banned Books Week was in 1982, following a sharp increase in challenges to books in libraries, bookstores, and schools. While most challenges are unsuccessful, if a book is banned, it is removed. According to the American Library Association, parents challenge materials more often than any other group.

The top 10 most challenged books last year include themes of racial justice, stories centered around BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ content. Of the top 10 most challenged books, 70% were by authors from marginalized groups.

Banned Books Week ‘brings together the entire book community in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.’ 2022’s theme is ‘Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us.’

Visit the library media center to learn more about Banned Books week and to celebrate your freedom to read.

Quote:
‘Ever since the existence of books, there have been those that have wanted to control them. Books are messengers. They can educate and liberate, as well as entertain and invite readers into worlds they never knew existed. Books give people hope.’ — Nicole Klett, from ‘How to Talk With Students about Banned Books'”