Banned Books

Okay, I've been thinking a lot about banned books since tomorrow is the first day of Banned Books week. I had a patron ask my last night why we even carry books at the library that have been banned or even challenged. The point is that no one should have the right to tell another person what they can or can't read. I'll bet if you checked the ALA's Banned Book List you'd find at least one book that you've read and enjoyed. Now imagine what your life would be like if you had to live in a country where someone could say to you, "You can't read that because it's too racey or has foul language or is too religious." It would suck, royally. I'll admit that I haven't read enough of the books on this list, but the ones I have read are such good books that I'm thankful to live in America. I'm not usually outwardly patriotic, but the first amendment is definately one of the best things our constitution has to offer. Read a banned book today, or recommend one to someone. Remember, censorship causes blindness; celebrate the freedom to read!