Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries, bookstores, and schools. The annual event highlights the value of free and open access to information and supports the freedom to seek and to express ideas. 

By focusing on efforts across the country to remove or restrict access to books, Banned Books Week draws national attention to the harms of censorship. Each year, the American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) compiles lists of challenged books as reported in the media and submitted by librarians and teachers across the country. 

The Riverside High School library helps spread awareness about censorship, book challenges, and book bans.  Many of the books that have been on the ALA's Top Ten Most Challenged Books lists are available for students and staff to check out.  Stop by the library and see what's on display!