The American Library Association documented 1,269 demands to censor library books and resources in 2022, the highest number of attempted book bans since ALA began compiling data about censorship in libraries more than 20 years ago. The unparalleled number of reported book challenges in 2022 nearly doubles the 729 book challenges reported in 2021. Of the record 2,571 unique titles targeted for censorship, the books below are most challenged, including reasons cited for censoring the books.
Banned Books Week (October 1st-October 7th) was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries, bookstores, and schools. The annual event highlights the value of free and open access to information and brings together the entire book community in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas.
As part of Banned Books Week, we are hosting an October 5th Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret. book discussion (at 5pm) and film screening (at 6pm) of the 2023 comedy/drama adaptation of the Judy Blume book. We have many copies of the book available.
Judy Blume is an author who has work frequently challenged or banned. Are You There God, It’s Me, Margaret. was banned in the 1970’s at the school that Judy Blume’s children attended. In the 1980’s there was even a pamphlet published called “How to Rid Your Schools and Libraries of Judy Blume Books.”
Now and through Banned Books Week, there are numerous banned book displays around the Library to learn more about what books have been challenged or banned.
You’ll see more than one book at spot five due to a tie.
Park City Library acknowledges that Sherman Alexie has been accused of sexual harassment. Because of this, communities are asking that we (American Library Association, libraries, book stores, etc.) do better when promoting Banned Book Week and that we read and promote other indigenous authors instead of highlighting Sherman Alexie. Books we should be including and reading are Kapaemahu by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, A Snake Falls To Earth by Darcie Little Badger, We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell, and Fire Keeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley.
You’ll see more than one book at spot ten due to a tie.
