In this Banned Books Week edition of News Bites, the New York Public Library has launched a teen-focused "Books for All" campaign; EveryLibrary Institute and Book Riot release the results of their Parent Perception Survey; PEN America, NCAC, and ALA offer resources.

NYPL launches “Books for All”

Coinciding with Banned Books Week and in response to the growing number of censorship attempts at schools and public libraries across the country, New York Public Library (NYPL) has launched “Books for All,” an anti-censorship campaign. The Books for All campaign will run from October 1 through the end of June.

Books for All includes a national Teen Banned Book Club, teen writing contest, and free programs and events that will highlight the impact of book bans.

The Teen Banned Book Club offers free, nationwide digital access to young adult titles that have been the subject of bans or challenges. The first book in the book club is Mark Oshiro’s Each of Us a Desert, which can be downloaded by anyone 13 and older—regardless of whether they have an NYPL library card—from October 2 through November 30.

The writing contest asks teens to explore why the freedom to read is important to them. One grand prize winner will be awarded $500 and 20 additional winners will receive $250 each—plus, all winning entries will be published in a special edition of NYPL's Teen Voices magazine. The deadline to enter is Dec. 22.

EveryLibrary Institute and Book Riot release survey results

EveryLibrary Institute and Book Riot have released the results of their “Parents Perceptions Survey” that asked parents and guardians about public libraries and book bans.

According to the report: Top-level findings show that a majority of respondents think that “banning books is a waste of time,” and 74 percent agree or somewhat agree that book bans infringe on their right to make decisions for their children. The survey also found that 92 percent of all respondents feel their child/children are safe at the library, and 58 percent think librarians should be primarily responsible for what books are selected in the public library. Respondents are largely unaware of how librarians decide what books to include in the library collection.

In other results about banning books and censorship, the survey of 853 parents and guardians with children under 18 during September 2023, showed:

• 50% report being “extremely aware” or ”very aware” of attempts to ban books nationwide this year, and only 7% report being “not at all aware” of book bans.
• 40% of respondents think that a book has been banned at their local library this year.
• 64% of parents agree or somewhat agree that “banning books is a waste of time”.
• 74% agree or somewhat agree that book bans infringe on their right to make decisions for their children (42% agree; 32% somewhat agree).
• 57% say that reading opens children up to new ideas, new people, and new perspectives, and 44% say that teens should have access to books on controversial subjects and themes.
• 67% agree or somewhat agree that books about complex topics like race or sex belong in the library. That falls to 60% when asked about LGBTQ+ themes specifically.
• 33% say that some books in the children's section of public libraries are not appropriate for any child.
• 31% say that banning books is the right way to prevent children from seeing something inappropriate.
• 25% think that librarians should be prosecuted for giving children access to certain books while 41% do not.

PEN America shares guide for speaking a meetings

Proponents of banning books are increasingly organized and vocal, speaking at school board and public library meetings. Making sure voices in support of the freedom to read are represented, too, is very important and PEN America is helping those who don’t know what to say with a guide that includes what to do before attending a meeting, as well as talking points once you are there.

Student voices can be especially effective, and PEN has a specific set of resources for young people who want to become a student advocates.

ALA offers downloads and merchandise

ALA is offering Banned Books Week 2023 and “Let Freedom Read” downloads and materials, including posters, bookmarks, stickers, and buttons, as well as print-on-demand items. The “Let Freedom Read” bookmarks, stickers, buttons, and bracelets can be used year-round.

NCAC provides anti-censorship resources 

The National Coalition Against Censorship offers anti-censorship resources as libraries, bookstores, and schools nationwide mark Banned Books Week. Advocates can access free data, tools, and a Map that offers information on instances of book bans and censorship in communities nationwide. All tools are available for free at ncac.org/bannedbooks.

Congress recognizes Banned Books Week

Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) reintroduced a resolution recognizing Banned Books Week and condemning the escalating attacks on books and freedom of expression in the United States. The Resolution, which comes amid a disturbing rise in book bans, focuses on the central role books play in democratic life and civil discourse and urges Congress to denounce the illegitimate censorship of books in K-12 classrooms, universities, prisons, and libraries.

“The escalating crisis of book bans across our country in recent years is a direct attack on First Amendment rights and should concern everyone who believes freedom of expression and the freedom to read are essential for a strong democracy,” Rep. Raskin said. “The sinister efforts to remove books from our schools and libraries are a hallmark of authoritarian regimes. My Democratic colleagues and I will continue fighting back against these threats to our First Amendment rights. Thank you to Senator Schatz for working with me to introduce this resolution, and thank you to all the freedom of speech champions who are fighting to protect our books and the freedom to think.”

The Banned Books Resolution has the support of 40 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives and 15 co-sponsors in the Senate.