Banned Books Week-What's the Big Deal?

What are banned and challenged books? What is Banned Books Week, and why is it important?

According to the American Library Association, a challenged book is one that someone has attempted to remove from a library or restrict access to within the libary, and a banned book has been removed from a library because of complaints by an individual or group. Challenges do not simply involve a person expressing a point of view; rather, they are an attempt to remove material from the curriculum or library, thereby restricting the access of others. Due to the commitment of librarians, teachers, parents, students and other concerned citizens, most challenges are unsuccessful and most materials are retained in the school curriculum or library collection.

Banned Books Week occurs annually, and it is designed to remind people of the importance of the first amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the freedom to read. The librarians at the Sullivan University Library and Learning Resource Center-Lexington Campus promote Banned Books Week to raise awareness about the materials banned or challenged and to remind students, faculty, and staff of the importance of having diverse materials available to read. To learn more about Banned Books Week go to the American Library Association’s Banned Books Week site.

Don't forget to stop by the library and see the display of banned and challenged books.