Being so busy with campaigns promoting “freedom and democracy” in the Middle East and central Asia, it’s hardly surprising that most of us here in the United States are unaware of an archaic and abominable practice that continues here at home – book banning. The Kids’ Right to Read Project (KRRP), a collaboration of NCAC and the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, recently released an interactive google map detailing book bans and challenges in
the United States from 2007-2009 recorded by KRRP and the American Library Association, The map can be found here. Its contents demonstrate the clear need to raise awareness about book censorship in America.
It’s time to speak up for our right to read! A great way to get involved is to participate in Banned Books Week, the only national celebration of the freedom to read, which will take place September 26- October 3, 2009. Check out the official Banned Books Week website here and also look out for updates and posts to NCAC’s BBW page. Libraries and bookstores interested in participating can post their events here. For more information contact info[at]abffe.com.