Banned books seem to be everywhere. While some might claim that they are "protecting children" by challenging or banning books from schools, libraries, and other public places, what they are really doing is a form of censorship.

That’s especially true during Banned Books Week, which kicks off on Sept. 22. The yearly event not only celebrates the free access of ideas, but it also highlights the increasing efforts to ban books – especially targeting titles featuring characters or written by authors who are LGBTQ+ and BIPOC.

The annual event is meant to bring the book community together in support of literature and the need for having free and open access to information.