The Smithers Library is putting a focus on banned books this week with Freedom to Read Week.
The annual event is run to challenge censorship and book banning that happens around the world while enforcing intellectual freedom.
“Canadians have the right to read what they want and make up their own mind about it, but when someone tries to have a book removed or restrict its availability, they rob others of personal choice and decision-making,” said Library Director Wendy Wright
104 books were challenged in Canadian libraries last year with the largest number coming from British Columbia.
Wright added in years past, the Smithers Library has had books challenged from its collection.
“We also received a form letter from an organized group listing of dozens of books to do with gender or sexuality, demanding the removal of all of the books (most of which we didn’t even own) and incorrectly accusing us of breaking the law by making them freely available.”
Friday night at 7:00, the library is hosting a Banned Book Bingo to discuss the types of books challenged over the past year.
Something going on in the Bulkley Valley Lakes District you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
