Each year hundreds of books are challenged. What does the word “challenged” mean? Challenged is defined as a formal, written complaint filed with a library or school requesting that materials be removed because of content or appropriateness. Whether the challenge is based on sexual explicitness, sexuality, racism, religious viewpoints, violence, offensive language, or many other issues, some of the these books are removed from circulation. Last year alone, 326 books were challenged. Perhaps some of your favorite books made this list. (http://www.ala.org/advocacy/banned/frequentlychallenged/challengedclassics/reasonsbanned)
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Banned Books Week (http://www.bannedbooksweek.org). Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries. Banned Books Week is September 30 through October 6. There are several ways you can participate and show your support for the freedom to read. The Library Club invites you to make a banned book themed bracelet or key chain. All materials are provided and all we ask is that you make a $2.00 or more donation that will be contributed to the Freedom to Read Foundation (http://www.ftrf.org).
There is a banned books arts station set up near the Library service desk and you are welcome to stop by for a creative break from classes, anytime M-Th 8 am – 7 pm or Fri. 8 am – 4 pm, during Banned Books Week.
The jewelry will be made out of scrabble tiles that have had pictures of banned book covers affixed to them. A very cute and clever and must-have accessory! If you would like more information you can contact Library Club President Jesse Whitton at jewhitto@umail.iu.edu or Library Club Advisor Ann Tobin at aktobin@iue.edu or stop by the Library.
The Library is also sponsoring a virtual Read-out. Film yourself reading a banned book for 1-3 minutes and email it to iueref@iue.edu or email us to schedule a time to get yourself filmed reading at the library. We have a variety of banned books ready for you to express your support for the freedom to read! More info: http://iue.libguides.com/bannedbooks