Did you know that every year thousands of books are challenged to be removed from school and public libraries all over the world?

That's right, and this week we celebrate your right to choose what you read from your school and public library.

This week's special edition of the Small Virtual Library is all about Banned Books Week!

Banned Books Week is an annual event celebrating the freedom to read. 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. Typically held during the last week of September, it highlights the value of free and open access to information. Banned Books Week 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 to express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular.

To learn more and see the latest news and events for the week from the American Library Association click here: https://bannedbooksweek.org/

Please know that I make every effort to select books and other materials that are appropriate for our school's audience of middle school students from +/- 11-14 years old. That being said, there is a vast difference in each person's comfort level, maturity, and interests in this age group and within each family. Ultimately, it is up to you and your parents to decide what book or other materials are just right for you.

If something doesn't seem to be a good fit, I encourage you to return it and I would be more than happy to help you find something that suits you.

Important info about this Smore:

• Each book cover will link to a video book trailer or book review so be sure to click on them!
• I will also list where you can access each book under each cover.

Need something? Contact me via Blend, email, or stop by the library!

Can't find a book you're looking for? You can request books (use the button at the bottom of the Smore) to be added to Sora, our online library.

This is just a small sample of books that have been challenged and/or banned from libraries.

See the list of the Top 100 Most Banned and Challenged Books by decade.