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Text graphic that reads 'Celebrate your Freedom to Read!' in orange and red letters.

Banned Books Week is a nationwide celebration of the freedom to read. It shines a light on attempts to remove or restrict books and invites conversations about the importance of intellectual freedom and everyone’s right to explore ideas.

Each year, libraries, schools and bookstores come together to celebrate the power of stories and the value of open access to information. It’s also a time to reflect on books that have faced challenges in the past and to honor the voices and perspectives that keep our shelves diverse and inspiring.

Challenged vs. Banned

Text explaining the definition of 'Challenged': When someone tries to remove or restrict materials based on personal or group objections.
Graphic with the word 'Banned' in red, explaining that banned materials are those removed from a library, school, or bookstore.

By reading and celebrating challenged and banned books, we stand together for the freedom to choose what we read, and help ensure future generations can discover the wide world of stories waiting for them.

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STAFF BLOGS:

A promotional image featuring a woman with shoulder-length hair next to a book cover of 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, with the text 'READ JENNY'S BLOG' prominently displayed.
A young girl sitting outdoors, reading a book with a focused expression. The background features a bold text overlay that reads 'READ ALLISON'S BLOG', along with images of two book covers: 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeleine L'Engle and 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry.
A person reading a comic book while holding the pages open, surrounded by two copies of 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman, with a bold text overlay that says 'READ JEFF'S BLOG'.
A promotional image featuring text that reads 'READ CARRIE'S BLOG' alongside a book cover for 'Mrs. Mike' by Benedict & Nancy Freedman and a background featuring a young woman with blonde hair.
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Banner for Banned Books Week featuring the text 'books are for reading, not burning' against a black background with flames, promoting the importance of intellectual freedom.

For more information on banned books, view our Intellectual Freedom blogs:
Intellectual Freedom at Boone County Public Library
More on Intellectual Freedom at Boone County Public Library