Free People, Read Freely
By: Kristine D’Souza
Freedom to Read Week
Freedom to Read Week (February 23rd to March 1st) highlights the fundamental right to access information in a democratic society. Libraries play a vital role in providing free access to diverse perspectives, fostering learning, growth, and the exchange of ideas.
Why Access to Information Matters?
- Being exposed to a variety of ideas encourages critical thinking.
- Reading diverse materials broadens our understanding of the world.
- Access to diverse ideas is essential for a healthy democracy.
Challenges to Freedom to Read
Despite its importance, the freedom to read faces many challenges:
- Some people try to remove books because they find certain topics or ideas offensive.
- Governments sometimes try to control what we see online and limit our access to information.
- The spread of “fake news” and misinformation online makes it harder to know what is real.
To learn more about intellectual freedom, check out the Canadian Federation of Library Associations’ Statement on Intellectual Freedom
Banned/Challenged Books Available at Lennox and Addington Libraries
Click here to discover some of the banned books available at L&A Libraries
Here’s a list of some books that have been banned or challenged—but are still available to borrow. These titles spark conversations and remind us why access to different perspectives matters:
The Handmaid’s Tale (1985) by Margaret Atwood
Atwood’s dystopian masterpiece depicts a totalitarian regime that controls women’s bodies and lives. Frequently challenged for profanity, anti-religious themes, and explicit content, it continues to be one of the most talked-about books of our time.
It’s Perfectly Normal (2021) by Robie H. Harris
Aimed at older children, this sex education book covers puberty, relationships, and sexual health in an accessible way. Despite being widely praised for its informative approach, it has been challenged in Canada for being “sexually explicit” and deemed inappropriate by some for its target age group.
And Then There Were None (1939) by Agatha Christie
This classic mystery has captivated readers for decades but faced challenges at the Toronto Public Library due to antisemitic language in the original text. Modern editions often address this by using updated language.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (2009) by Sherman Alexie
This semi-autobiographical novel follows a Native American teen as he navigates life on and off the reservation. It has been challenged for profanity, depictions of sexual content, and frank discussions of sensitive topics, but it remains an essential read for understanding identity and resilience.
The Hunger Games (2008) by Suzanne Collins
A story of survival and rebellion in a dystopian world, this popular series has been challenged for its violence, offensive language, and “anti-family” themes. Its thought-provoking look at oppression and power has made it both beloved and controversial.
Night School (2017) by Lee Child
This fast-paced thriller faced a challenge for its graphic descriptions of violence, including sexual violence. Despite the challenge, it remains part of the beloved Jack Reacher series.
Great Gatsby (1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald’s classic novel of love, wealth, and disillusionment was removed from some high schools in Alaska for offensive language and sexual references. It’s a cornerstone of American literature and a reflection on the flaws of the American Dream.
The Scorpion Rules (2015) by Erin Bow
This science fiction novel for teens explores themes of sacrifice, politics, and humanity’s future. It was challenged in Canada for its inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ characters and relationships, highlighting the importance of diverse representation in literature.
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You (2020) by Jason Reynolds
Adapted from Ibram X. Kendi’s work, this book tackles the history and impact of racism. Critics have challenged it for being selective in its storytelling and for addressing critical race theory, but it remains a vital resource for understanding systemic inequities.
The Golden Compass (1995) by Philip Pullman
This fantasy series for children has been banned by some Catholic School Boards in Canada on the basis that it is anti-Catholic.
The Great Bear (2021) by David Robertson
This popular children’s fantasy novel by an award-winning Cree author was pulled from libraries and classrooms in the Durham Public School Board in 2022 on the basis that it may be harmful to Indigenous children. The decision was subsequently reversed.
