Sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and others, Banned Books Week highlights the value of free and open access to information, free speech and modern literature. The First Amendment to the United States Constitution says that Congress will pass no law abridging freedom of the press, speech, religion, assembly or ability to petition the government. However, all over the country, organizations try to ban the purchase of or access to certain books. This year’s event, which takes place from September 22—28, promotes awareness on these attempts at censorship of modern literature.

Why Banned Books Week?

For decades, public schools, universities, public libraries, state and local governments, school boards, parents and bookstores have tried to ban and censor books. Read more →