With the American Library Association, Fontana Regional Library will celebrate Banned Books Week 2018 September 23-29. The nationwide observance brings together the entire book community — librarians, booksellers, authors, publishers, journalists, teachers, and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek out and to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.
A banned book is one that has been removed from a school or library based upon the objections of a person or group; a challenged book is one that is threatened with removal or restriction. In many cases, a challenge is unsuccessful and the book remains on the shelf.
Even though Fontana Regional Library has not seen any books challenged or banned in Macon, Jackson, or Swain Counties recently, many popular and culturally important books have been banned in various communities over the years -- from Harry Potter to the Bible -- and it still happens today.
The American Library Association stands up for everyone’s right to make their own decisions about what they want (or don’t want) to read, with the understanding that parents make reading decisions on behalf of their own children.
By focusing on efforts across the country to remove or restrict access to books, Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to read and draws national attention to the harms of censorship. Look for informational displays and book lists at Fontana Regional Library locations to learn more about protecting and honoring your right to read.
James LaRue, Director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom asks, “How can libraries and literary advocates continue to encourage both individuals and whole communities to learn and grow, to understand the world around us? Censorship is not the answer.”
For more information, visit or contact your local Fontana Regional Library location.
