Libraries Unite: Day of Action Against Book Bans

censorshipPhoto byMick HauptonUnsplash

The New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, and Queens Public Library participated in a national “Freedom to Read Day of Action” in response to a surge in book censorship incidents. The American Library Association reported a significant increase in book bans, particularly targeting titles featuring LGBT+ characters and characters of color. Fritzi Bodenheimer from the Brooklyn Public Library emphasized the importance of preserving diverse perspectives in literature, highlighting that silencing marginalized groups goes against democratic values. While New York City experiences fewer book banning cases, there were 57 challenges in the state, including bomb threats over a particular book. The Brooklyn Public Library's Books Unbanned initiative aims to provide access to censored books for students nationwide without requiring parental permission. However, it has faced backlash, with a teacher in Oklahoma losing her teaching license for promoting the program. Events like performances and rallies were held to raise awareness about the implications of book banning and censorship. The collaborative effort made by the New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, and Queens Public Library during the national “Freedom to Read Day of Action” underscored a unified stand against the escalating wave of book censorship. With the American Library Association flagging a sharp uptick in bans predominantly aimed at works featuring LGBT+ and characters of color, the libraries' participation spoke volumes about the steadfast commitment to upholding the freedom of expression and protecting diverse voices in literature. Fritzi Bodenheimer’s advocacy for maintaining a broad spectrum of perspectives underscored the libraries' active role in safeguarding democratic principles and combating attempts to stifle marginalized narratives.

Despite New York City facing a relatively lower number of book banning incidents compared to the statewide challenges, the alarming nature of 57 reported cases, including serious threats, underscored the urgent need to counter such restrictions on literary access. The Brooklyn Public Library's bold initiative through the Books Unbanned program represents a vital step in ensuring equitable access to censored materials, particularly for students, without unnecessary barriers like parental permission. However, the program's encounter with resistance, exemplified by the unjust loss of a teacher’s license in Oklahoma, serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges faced in the fight against censorship. The various events and activities organized, from performances to rallies, played a crucial role in shedding light on the detrimental impacts of book banning, fostering crucial dialogue, and rallying support for the fundamental right to read freely.

Source:

https://gothamist.com/news/city-libraries-unite-against-censorship-with-day-of-action