Welcome to the Banned and Challenged Books Research Guide!
In a time where difficult conversations are happening, it is especially important to reflect on why books are being challenged. These books have themes and subject matter that touch on these very difficult conversations.
Explore this guide to find out more information on why books are challenged, what books have been challenged, and what you can be doing to help!
"With the escalation in attempts to ban books in libraries, schools, and bookstores around the country, George Orwell’s cautionary tale "1984" serves a prescient warning about the dangers of censorship. This year’s theme reminds us that the right to read belongs to all of us, that censorship has no place in contemporary society, and that we must defend our rights.... The majority of book censorship attempts now originate from organized movements. Pressure groups and government entities that include elected officials, board members, and administrators initiated 72% of demands to censor books in school and public libraries. The 120 titles most frequently targeted for censorship during 2024 are all identified on partisan book rating sites, which provide tools for activists to demand the censorship of library books."
Source: American Library Association [ALA] Banned Books Week
Challenged: An attempt to remove or restrict access to a book, based on objections due to personal beliefs or values.
Banned: The actual removal of a book, based on objections due to personal beliefs or values.
Relocated: A book being hidden or moved to a less-noticed area as an attempt to challenge or ban the book.