Banned Books Week began in 1982 with librarian and member of the American Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Committee, Judith Krug. According to Krug, she was contacted by the Association of American Publishers. They wanted to make the average American more aware of a recent "surge" in banned books. Since that time, challenges and bans have continued, and so has Banned Books Week.
The goal of this week is to promote intellectual freedom in libraries, schools and bookstores; as well as raising awareness about what can happen when information is censored in a free society. For this reason, Amnesty International is also somewhat partnered to this event in an effort to draw attention to the experience and conditions of those who are "persecuted because of the writings that they produce, circulate or read".
As we move through this week, you'll have the opportunity to encounter different books, learn the reasons that they have been challenged or banned. You can also learn about who challenges books, where these challenges happen, and what commonalities these books have.
Warner Library houses many books that have historically been banned and/or challenged. Ever year during Banned Books Week, we promote these books and encourage readers to check them out. Check out our displays and events below:
2024:
Click HERE to view our Banned Books Week display from 2024.
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