What is Banned Books Week?
Banned Books Week is the annual celebration of the freedom to read. Held during the last week of September, it brings together the entire book community—librarians, booksellers, publishers, journalists, teachers, and readers of all types—in shared support of the freedom to seek and express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.
The Week at a Glance
- •When: Last week of September each year (typically Sunday through Saturday)
- •Organized by: American Library Association (ALA) and other partner organizations
- •Purpose: Celebrate the freedom to read, draw attention to banned and challenged books, and highlight the harms of censorship
- •Participants: Libraries, schools, bookstores, publishers, and readers nationwide
Banned Books Week reminds us that the freedom to read is essential to our democracy. By highlighting attempts to restrict access to books, we reaffirm our commitment to the free exchange of ideas.
History of Banned Books Week
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. Since then, it has become the premier event celebrating the freedom to read.
Banned Books Week is Founded
In response to the Island Trees School District v. Pico Supreme Court case and a growing number of book challenges, the American Library Association, along with publishers and booksellers, established Banned Books Week to draw attention to the problem of censorship.
First Banned Books Week Read-Out
The tradition of public readings from banned and challenged books begins, giving voice to the very works that some sought to silence.
Virtual Expansion
As the internet grows, Banned Books Week embraces digital platforms to spread awareness, including virtual read-outs, social media campaigns, and online resources.
Record Book Challenges
The American Library Association reports the highest number of attempted book bans since they began tracking, making Banned Books Week more relevant than ever.
Continued Relevance
With book challenges at historic highs, Banned Books Week continues to be a vital occasion for defending intellectual freedom and the right to read.
The Island Trees v. Pico Case
The 1982 Supreme Court case Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District v. Pico was a landmark decision that helped establish students' First Amendment rights in school libraries. The Court ruled that school officials cannot remove books from libraries simply because they dislike the ideas in them. This case helped galvanize the creation of Banned Books Week.
How to Participate and Celebrate
There are countless ways to participate in Banned Books Week, whether you're an individual reader, educator, librarian, or community organizer. Here are ideas to help you celebrate the freedom to read.
For Individual Readers
Read a Banned Book
Choose a book from the frequently challenged list and read it. Understanding why books are challenged helps us appreciate the importance of intellectual freedom.
- Check out the ALA's top banned books lists
- Read a book you've been curious about
- Try a genre or topic outside your comfort zone
Share on Social Media
Use hashtags like #BannedBooksWeek and #FreedomToRead to share what you're reading and why intellectual freedom matters to you.
- Post photos of your banned book reads
- Share why a particular book was meaningful
- Use official Banned Books Week graphics
Support Your Local Library
Libraries are on the front lines of defending the freedom to read. Show your support during Banned Books Week and beyond.
- Attend library events and programs
- Donate to your library or Friends group
- Speak up at public meetings
Start a Conversation
Talk with friends, family, and colleagues about banned books and why the freedom to read matters.
- Host a book club discussion
- Share articles about book banning
- Discuss what intellectual freedom means to you
For Educators and Librarians
Create a Display
Set up a Banned Books Week display featuring challenged and banned books, along with information about why they were targeted.
- Use official Banned Books Week materials
- Include books from diverse perspectives
- Add QR codes linking to more information
Host a Read-Out
Organize a public reading of passages from banned and challenged books. Invite community members to participate.
- Get permissions and prepare excerpts
- Invite local authors and officials
- Stream the event online for wider reach
Teach About Censorship
Use Banned Books Week as an opportunity to teach students about the First Amendment, intellectual freedom, and critical thinking.
- Discuss why certain books are challenged
- Explore the history of censorship
- Encourage students to form their own opinions
Invite Authors
Reach out to authors of banned or challenged books to speak at your school or library, either in person or virtually.
- Many authors are eager to participate
- Prepare questions for Q&A sessions
- Record sessions for future use (with permission)
For Community Organizations
Partner with Libraries
Work with local libraries and schools to amplify Banned Books Week programming and reach more community members.
Host a Panel Discussion
Bring together librarians, educators, authors, and community members to discuss the state of book banning in your area.
The most powerful thing you can do during Banned Books Week is to read—and encourage others to read—the very books that some would prefer you couldn't access. Every book read is a vote for intellectual freedom.
Official Resources and Partner Organizations
These organizations are key partners in the fight for intellectual freedom and provide valuable resources for Banned Books Week participation.
American Library Association
The ALA is the oldest and largest library association in the world, and the primary organizer of Banned Books Week. Access official resources, graphics, and event listings.
Office for Intellectual Freedom
A division of the ALA dedicated to defending the freedom to read. Tracks book challenges nationwide and provides support to libraries facing censorship attempts.
Banned Books Week Coalition
A coalition of organizations including the ALA, American Booksellers Association, and others that coordinate Banned Books Week activities nationally.
PEN America
Champions the freedom to write around the world. PEN America tracks school book bans, publishes reports on censorship trends, and advocates for writers whose work is suppressed.
National Coalition Against Censorship
An alliance of national nonprofit organizations united in defense of free expression. Provides resources for educators and librarians facing challenges.
EveryLibrary
The first and only national organization dedicated to political action for libraries. Helps communities fight library defunding and book bans.
Additional Resources
- •Top Banned Books Lists: The ALA publishes annual lists of the most challenged and banned books, available at ala.org/bbooks
- •Banned Books Week Graphics: Download free posters, bookmarks, and social media graphics from the official Banned Books Week website
- •Report a Book Challenge: If you encounter a book challenge, report it to the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom to help track censorship attempts nationwide