City of Salem Invites Community to Contribute to Banned Book Little Library at City Hall

Now that the City of Salem has concluded our celebration of National Banned Book Week, we extend an open invitation to the community to share their own books. Contributions can be made by dropping off books directly within our Banned Book Little Library situated directly in front of City Hall. 

In a climate where books dealing with themes of gender, sexuality, and racism are often challenged, it's important to note the alarming statistics. According to Pen America, the previous school year witnessed a staggering 1,477 instances of book bans across the United States. Furthermore, across the country, there have been over 147 bills introduced this year aimed at restricting access to books.

“In communities nationwide, books face challenges and bans,” said Mayor Dominick Pangallo. “Salem stands firm in our commitment to intellectual freedom and the right to read. The City of Salem Banned Book Little Library is yet another small way we can come together as a community to support that freedom and right.  I hope that everyone will consider contributing a book they are no longer reading, or choose a new one to take home.”

While all books are welcome at this little library, books that have been banned or challenged are especially welcome and in keeping with the spirit of this project.  Unsure if the books in your home library are on the list of banned titles? Numerous online resources provide comprehensive lists of challenged books. Whether it's classics like Fahrenheit 451 and The Great Gatsby or more contemporary works such as Looking for Alaska and Gender Queer, you can verify the status of your personal collection.

Remember, these contributions can be placed right inside our Banned Book Little Library right in front of City Hall. Let us unite in celebrating the freedom to read and stand resolute against book bans. For more information on frequently challenged books, explore the following resources:

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/classics

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/decade2019.