Book Challenges and Intellectual Freedom

This morning I read an article by the Associated Press that stated 2022 set a new record for book challenges in the United States. Apparently, more than 1,200 books were challenged last year, which was twice the number challenged in 2021. Requests were made to remove certain items from library shelves across the country, and librarians were even harassed or threatened.

I've written about book challenges before, and as a librarian in the U.S., I would like to reiterate that it's my job to obtain information for library patrons, regardless of what that information may be. It's not my job to censor information. Library materials in this country are available to all those who want them. People are free to borrow (or not borrow) whatever they would like.

You do not have to agree with all the items a library contains; even library staff do not agree with everything on library shelves. What's important is having access to materials and respecting each other's right to check out materials of our choosing.

The library is a safe place for everyone. No matter what you believe, who you are, or where you come from, you are welcome in the library. Let's make sure we keep the library a safe and respectful place where all kinds of information is obtainable.

Ever respectfully yours from the perch.