This Monday to Friday, the library is celebrating Freedom to Read Week, a nationally recognized event where local libraries and bookstores celebrate the prevalence of unbanned literature and bring attention to attempts at book censorship.
Attempts to ban books are far from uncommon in the United States. There have been 695 reported attempts to censor and challenge library materials between January 1 and August 31 of 2023, according to data released by the American Library Association. Most of these attempts were tied to books spotlighting people of color or the LGBTQ+ community.
The week’s original name, Banned Books Week, was changed this year to emphasize books that have remained unbanned despite such heavy pushback, Brittany Sharitz, librarian, said.
“The freedom to choose what you want to read is actually protected in your First Amendment rights,” Sharitz said.
Sharitz also said the week may spread enough awareness to actively push back against book challenges and bans.
“Sadly there are more challenges within the past few years than historically there have ever been,” Sharitz said. “We think it’s important that people are educated on why bans and challenges happen.”
Colin Brookhyser, junior, said he regularly reads books.
“I think banning books is going way too far,” Brookhyser said. “The ability to read is something you shouldn’t take away from somebody.”
Brookhyser said he is excited the school will be celebrating unbanned literature. The library will be hosting a dress-up contests, free book giveaways and discussions with language arts classes.
“Reading is a hobby, and we deserve the pursuit of our personal interests,” Brookhyser said.
Ray Holmes, librarian, is also strongly opposed to the idea of book bans and said Freedom to Read Week is a great way to discuss the importance of free literature.
“A student should have the right to have access to books on different topics,” Holmes said.
While most book bans are well-intentioned and done to protect children from uncomfortable ideas, reading is ultimately the choice of the parents and students, Holmes said.
Emily Grzyb, junior, is one of the students helping the library set up the week’s events. Gryzb is a member of the Libro Club, which is helping spread information about the week and encouraging students to participate.
“We don’t want people to think the week is just about banned books,” Grzyb said. “We want them to read the books that aren’t banned too.”
