We're getting ready for Banned Books Week (September 24-October 1) at the library, and I'm forewarning that as a librarian I have some strong feelings about it.
I'm going to let you in on something--librarians are all about information and most (including myself) feel fiercely passionate about keeping information readily available to the public without limitations or censorship. After all, freedom (including the freedom to read what you choose) is part of the foundation of the United States.
So it upsets me when I think of people banning books. I can understand that some books conflict with the beliefs of some people. I'm going to be honest--there are some books or DVDs that I may disagree with. Do I think those items should be banned? No. Just because I may find an item personally questionable doesn't mean that other people shouldn't have the right to read or watch that item. Likewise, I should have the right to access material that other people may not support.
The whole point of the matter is we should all have the freedom to access all types of material. If a library item offends you, no one is forcing you to use it, but respect the right and freedom of others to use it. The U.S. is a nation of many peoples and cultures. Let's all respect each other.
Getting off my soapbox, er, perch.
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