Freedom in the Library
Please see our research guide on Banned Books and Censorship!
In the Spring of 2023, in response to the startling rise of book bans and challenges throughout our country, the staff of Pickering Library made a display of some of the most frequently challenged books in school libraries and the reasons for their challenge. Madeline Colker was the staff member who expertly designed the display - and she was later interviewed by the Daily Free Press (linked). The American Library Association tracked 729 challenges to library, school and university materials and services in 2021, resulting in more than 1,597 book challenges or removals. Most targeted books were by or about Black and LGBTQ+ persons. More information can be found here.
As of July 2022, book banning in the U.S. hit its highest level in 40 years.
Celebrate Your F-READ-om!
