Celebrate Your Freedom to Read Sept. 26 – Oct. 2
What do you think of when you hear the term “banned book”?
Maybe Fahrenheit 451 or Lolita? Books are still being challenged and banned, but these days it’s more likely to be a book targeted to your middle-schooler or teenager. In 2020, all of the top ten most challenged books were titles for kids and teens or often read in school settings, including Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You and The Bluest Eye.
One of the things that many readers love about books is learning, being exposed to new ideas and perspectives. As Jason Reynold, author and honorary chair of Banned Books week, said in a Twitter chat, keeping young people from reading widely limits their resilience and advocacy. He wrote, “I think books for young audiences are banned most often because many adults (in their infinite fear) believe it’s better to shield young people than to help young people grow to become shields for others.” (https://bit.ly/3EB8TbT)
This year’s theme: Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us centers on using books to create conversation and increase understanding. Join us during Banned Books Week and check out our display of books that have been challenged or banned over time. It will likely include some of your favorites, especially if you’re a Judy Blume fan.
We’ll have some great student art, fun merch to show your love of reading what you want, and the opportunity to get your mug shot taken reading a banned book.
~ Robin Wood, Social Media Manager