These Books Matter

A Banned Books Week Celebration

Abstract

In recent years there has been an increase in book banning in public schools, which denies students access to texts. Therefore, it is essential that individuals become advocates against censorship in public school libraries. An educational/advocacy event was held on a university campus as part of the nationwide events highlighting the American Library Association’s Banned Books Week. The focus of this event was for participants to read/listen to readings of banned books, learn about the types of books that are banned in K-12 public schools across the country, understand the process (or lack thereof) by which books are typically banned, and discuss ways to advocate against banning books in public school libraries. Each of the six event engagements was thoughtfully designed to engage participants with banned books. Individuals/groups who desire to host their own event for Banned Books Week (or any anti-censorship event) can use this framework to develop their event to advocate against censorship.