Fourth of July celebrated our independence, and the various freedoms that we can appreciate in this country. One that the library celebrates is your freedom to read!
Why do libraries bring up the term "Banned Books?" Do these mean books banned from our own Monterey Public Library? Short answer - no. Banned Books are generally challenged or removed from a library collection somewhere in the United States. Some are removed due to religious, political, gender issues, race, sex, or even mistaken identity like the picturebook Brown Bear, Brown Bear! Essentially this is censorship of titles that may be offensive to some readers but of interest to others.
So what does the freedom to read mean? Basically, individuals and/or families should choose what is appropriate for themselves. The public library's role is to provide free and equitable access to a wide range of topics and materials. We can recommend resources so that you can make the choice of what is best for you and your family; but ultimately what you choose to checkout is up to you! Once you get a library card, you have access to the full collection of materials held within. What will you explore next?
I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.
IV. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas.
V. A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.
Warmly~
Brian
