Freedom to Read

UTA Libraries is celebrating authors, writers, journalists, publishers, ideas, and the freedom to read through its participation in Banned Books Week. 

The library has set up a display of books from its collection featured on the Banned Book List on the third floor of the Central Library between the Rainbow and Safe Space Lounges through Oct. 9. 

Amy Castillo, Director of Access and Discovery, stated that Banned Books Week is not only a celebration of freedom but also highlights instances of censorship that seek to silence people's voices. 

"The titles that you see that are often challenged are materials from people of color or the LBGTQ+ community," Amy said. "That is concerning because the recent focus of these attempts is to silence and reduce access to these conversations." 

Amy stated that UTA Libraries is a big supporter of this week because the library is a champion of free and open access to information for anyone. 

The American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom created the Banned Book List. The list uses reports from libraries, schools, and the media on attempts to ban books nationwide documenting these instances. 

The ALA's website states in 2022, 93 attempts to restrict access to books and 2,349 titles were challenged in those attempts in Texas. The most challenged book title in Texas was "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison. 

Amy stated that there are books on the list that have been there for years and years. Some of these titles include classics such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee and "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck. New titles on the list include the "Harry Potter" series of books by J.K. Rowling. 

Milaun Murry, Assistant Department Head for Community Engagement, stated that if students visit the display or attend any other events sponsored by us or the English department, they will receive an entry into a raffle drawing.  

Students will have three chances to enter by visiting the display and attending the English department's tabling event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the Central Library and the Let's Talk Banned Books luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 7, in room 109 at the Central Library.  

The raffle prize will include a challenged book, a candle, a candle warmer and library swag.  

For more information about Banned Books Week or upcoming library events, visit the UTA Libraries website and social media pages. 

People can find out more about Banned Books Week through the American Library Association’s website.