Banned Books Week
From Renee Di Pilato, Director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources
Over the last few months, many of you have expressed an interest in learning more about intellectual freedom and censorship. September happens to be the perfect time to highlight these issues, as libraries across the country mark Banned Books Week from September 18-24. Banned Books Week is an annual initiative spearheaded by the American Library Association (ALA) to shed light on those books that are frequently challenged, including titles such as To Kill a Mockingbird, The Bluest Eye, and The Hate U Give.
Sarasota County Libraries remain committed to open access of information and intellectual freedom, and we are not alone in this sentiment. Recently, ALA conducted a nationwide study in which 71% of respondents noted they oppose attempts to remove books from libraries. This study also revealed that almost 80% of voters believe that libraries do a good job of offering materials that represent a wide variety of viewpoints.
Maintaining a robust collection of books and resources is an essential mission for our library system. By providing access to a wide array of materials, our libraries offer something of interest to every reader. Libraries promote intellectual curiosity, enrich lifelong learning, encourage critical thinking, and support an informed community. These tools are essential to a democratic society and the success of our nation.
As stated in Libraries: An American Value, by upholding principles of free access, “…libraries in the United States can contribute to a future that values and protects freedom of speech in a world that celebrates both our similarities and our differences, respects individuals and their beliefs, and holds all persons truly equal and free.”
Thank you for supporting Sarasota County Libraries and our efforts to provide the best resources, programs, and services to our community. If you would like to learn more, visit the Banned Books Week website and ALA’s Office of Intellectual Freedom.
