Banned Book Week highlights right to read

The first week of October has been designated by the American Library Association as Banned Book Week, and the Eastern Oklahoma Library System (EOLS) is celebrating at the Sallisaw and Muldrow libraries.

For more than 40 years, this annual event has brought together the entire book community — including librarians, teachers, booksellers, publishers, writers, journalists and readers of all kinds — in a collective show of support for the freedom to seek and express ideas, even those some may deem unorthodox or unpopular.

The event sheds light on both current and historical efforts by individuals, community groups and government bodies to censor or challenge books in public libraries and schools due to content that is considered inappropriate, offensive or in conflict with the challenger’s beliefs. Notably, books like the Bible, “Charlotte’s Web” and “Little House on the Prairie” have found their place on the challenged book list. According to the American Library Association, the top three reasons for challenges include the subject matter being considered “sexually explicit,” containing “offensive language” or being “unsuited to any age group.”

Bethia Owens, branch manager for both Sallisaw and Muldrow libraries, emphasizes that local libraries are open to everyone.

“Our library system aims to support a diverse audience, so if you encounter material that challenges your cultural, ethnic or religious beliefs, we also have resources that can support your personal beliefs,” Owens says. She also says many people often label book content as offensive without first taking the time to read it.

While books are frequently challenged with the intention of protecting others, especially children, from “difficult ideas and information,” Owens underscores that “parents — and only parents — have the right and responsibility to restrict access of their children — and only their children — to library resources.”

The EOLS continues to provide community services through its library system, which has 15 branches and serves six counties. In addition to their extensive library collection, they offer STEM and science classes, computer classes and several downloadable apps, ranging from online tutoring and genealogy to television shows and movies, all accessible for free, thanks to grants from taxpayers.

Owens encourages everyone to visit the library, not just during Banned Book Week, emphasizing that libraries are available “24/7, 365 days a year” due to their extensive online library and services.