Banned Books Week
Read what you want. Read often. Read everything you can get your hands on. - Nick Higgins, chief librarian of the Brooklyn Public Library.
In honor of Banned Books Week we’re unveiling our first special collection of books inside our 1850s walk-in bank safe at the store. Visit the exhibit to see some of our favorite books that have been challenged or banned from schools, libraries, and other public places. There’s no better time to think about the freedom to read than now, when book banning is reaching unprecedented highs.
If you’re new to the current cultural conversation about censorship and free expression, read on for some resources on what to read, who to follow, and how to get involved.
A D.C. based non-profit dedicated to protecting the freedom of expression.
Start here with their 2022 book banning guide to get a clear understanding of what’s going on with current bans, and what’s at stake.
Curious about why book bans seem to be gaining in popularity? This New York Times article provides a convincing political context for how bans are becoming tools of the trade for polarizing politicians.
Press Freedom Tracker
Book bans adjacent: It’s not a stretch to say that banning books is part of a wider threat to free expression. This open-sourced news project documents attacks on journalists and provides context and data on violations against the free press. A great resource for students researching freedom of the press and First Amendment rights.
Get Involved
American Library Association
The oldest and largest library association in the world.
Check out their resource page for library workers dealing with book challenges, and sign up for a toolkit to take action against bans.
Read and share the ALA’s latest white paper on book bans: Empowered by Reading: The Benefits of Giving Youth Access to a Variety of Reading Materials.
American Booksellers Association
And last but not least, your local booksellers are a resource, and a way to take action, too! Learn more about the role of independent booksellers via American Booksellers for Free Expression. And remember that your dollars are votes - when you shop small and indie, you’re supporting booksellers who value book access and free expression.