(Updated October 1, 2026)
In recent years, United States residents have witnessed a sharp rise in censorship efforts. In schools and libraries, books are being challenged or outright banned at an alarming rate. It may be to your surprise that many of the books under fire are those that amplify marginalized voices, explore complex social issues, and encourage critical thinking. This growing trend threatens not only the diversity of stories available to readers but also the foundational freedom to read and think independently.
As we enter Banned Books Week (October 4-10, 2026)—a national celebration of the freedom to read—it’s more important than ever to reflect on what’s at stake. This week isn’t just about defending specific titles. It’s about standing up for intellectual freedom, improving accessibility to information, and ensuring a diverse representation of ideas and stories in books, today and for future generations.
As your public library, we usher in this celebration with several ways for you to participate including community events, booklists, and resources from ALA. Scroll to see our offerings.
Programs
Many challenged and banned book titles are considered Young Adult literature. So this year, we're focusing on giving teens the space to talk about how book censorship efforts affect them. We're running a Banned Books Week teen read-a-thon and hosting teen craft programs like bedazzling banned book covers and banned books mini-keychain making.
For families with small children, there will also be a banned books storytime on October 10, 2026 at the Main Library Children's Room.
Attend our banned books events!
Booklists
Or read from one of our staff-curated banned book lists below.
Free people read freely! Every year the American Library Association (ALA) publishes a list of the top most challenged books to keep the public informed about censorship in libraries and schools. "Of the unique titles challenged in 2025, 1,671 (39%) represent the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people and people of color." The ALA's report is linked at the bottom.
“Removing or restricting queer books in libraries and schools is like cutting a lifeline for queer youth...” — Maia Kobabe
Censorship is so 1984 - read for your rights! Check out these middle grade and young adult books about fighting censorship, finding yourself on the page, and taking a stand for the right to read.
Honor the freedom to read with this powerful list of picture books that have faced challenges or champion the right to think and speak freely.
From the American Library Association
See the data for yourself and learn what action you can take. Find out the top ten most challenged books of 2025 and if you're curious you can even see the top 100 banned books from previous decades.
Visit our Banned Books Week page for all our resources on this topic.
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