Here at Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL), we stand firmly for the right to free and open access to information, believing that everyone should be able to seek and share ideas without restriction. In a step to uphold this principle, we are proud to declare ourselves a Book Sanctuary. This designation solidifies our libraries as safe havens where the freedom to read is fiercely protected and where books are defended against censorship, bans and other challenges. At AACPL, our libraries are places where ideas can be explored without fear of censorship or judgment—where intellectual freedom thrives.
In order to be recognized as a Book Sanctuary, libraries must do at least one of the following:
- Collect and protect endangered books
- Make endangered books accessible to the public
- Host events such as book talks and storytimes focused on banned and challenged books
- Educate others about the history of book banning and burning.
AACPL already fulfills these requirements and has long championed the values of intellectual freedom, diversity and inclusion, making our decision to declare ourselves a Book Sanctuary a powerful and natural progression. We are proud to join this movement and uphold these vital principles.
As our CEO, Skip Auld, puts it, "All people deserve to see themselves represented in books." Many of the books facing censorship focus on the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized populations. These are essential stories that must be shared and heard. By defending the right to read and standing against censorship, we reaffirm our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the fight against systemic racism. Everyone, regardless of background, deserves the chance to see themselves reflected in the stories we protect.
Our policies already embody the philosophy of the Book Sanctuary initiative. We will continue to protect and provide access to diverse perspectives by purchasing books that align with our Collection Development Policy, ensuring our libraries remain spaces where all voices can be heard. CEO Auld affirms that "here in Anne Arundel County, we guarantee that every book, every thought and every perspective is protected."
Becoming a Book Sanctuary lines up just in time for Banned Books Week, observed from September 22 through September 28. This annual event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by books targeted for removal or censorship. The theme for this year, "Freed Between the Lines," underscores the freedom readers find in literature and how that freedom is threatened when books are banned or censored.
A banned book is any previously accessible work that has been challenged or successfully removed from public access because it was deemed harmful or dangerous by someone. According to the American Library Association's (ALA) Office of Intellectual Freedom, there were "4,240 unique book titles targeted for censorship" and "1,247 demands to censor library books, materials, and resources" in 2023 alone. The number of titles targeted for censorship in public libraries surged by 92% from the previous year, accounting for nearly half of all book challenges in 2023. Alarmingly, 47% of these challenges targeted books representing the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals.
In Maryland, over half of our public libraries have faced book challenges in the past five years. During the same period, library staff experienced a 600% increase in threats and endured 11 bomb threats directly related to these issues. Banned Books Week serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need to defend these stories, voices and the right to access diverse perspectives.
AACPL upholds the right of every customer to choose library materials that align with their personal needs, tastes and family values. It is the responsibility of customers, including parents and caregivers, to review materials before checking them out to ensure they meet their preferences. However, no individual, parent or group should have the power to dictate what books others can access.
Our policies are guided by the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights, the "Freedom to Read Statement" and the "Freedom to View Statement." We believe that protecting the free exchange of diverse ideas and stories is essential to a free society and progress. Restricting access to books limits freedom of thought and speech—values that our Constitutional Amendments were built to protect.
In declaring ourselves a Book Sanctuary, AACPL reaffirms our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the freedom to read and access diverse perspectives. As we observe Banned Books Week, we stand united with the broader library community in highlighting the importance of protecting literature from censorship and restrictions. Our libraries are more than just spaces for borrowing books—they are sanctuaries where intellectual freedom and diverse voices thrive. By continuing to support and provide access to a wide range of materials, we ensure that every individual can see themselves reflected in the stories we preserve. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to defending your right to read, honoring the legacy of Banned Books Week and upholding the core principles of intellectual freedom that underpin our democratic society.
Celebrate Banned Books Week with us!
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Books Unbanned: The Library as a Book Sanctuary at Severna Park Library: COO Catherine Hollerbach and CTO Rudy Rodela will discuss the national landscape of book banning, local legislation and how AACPL addresses these challenges. Tuesday, September 24 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
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Book Sanctuary Launch at Discoveries: The Library at the Mall: Join us for the official launch of AACPL as a Book Sanctuary, followed by a Challenged & Banned Books Storytime featuring Grandad's Camper, by Harry Woodgate. Wednesday, September 25 at 10am and 10:30am
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Banned Book Tiny Art Showcase: Visit Maryland City at Russett Library to explore art inspired by challenged books. Wednesday, September 25 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Cheers to AACPL as we "Raise a Glass to Your Freedom to Read"
Visit Forward Brewing, Pherm Brewing Co. and Crooked Crab Brewing Co. in October to celebrate the library and your freedom to read! Each brewery has crafted an exclusive drink, and 20% of on-site sales during the release events will support improvements across all 16 library locations.
October 1, 5-7 pm – Forward Brewing
October 12, 12-3 pm – Pherm Brewing
October 24, 4-7 pm – Crooked Crab Brewing
We will have a new limited edition, specially-designed pint glass this year! Pint glasses will be a complimentary gift with a $10 donation or more. Glasses will be available at each event, while supplies last.
Read Banned Books
Check out ALA's Top Ten Most Challenged Books of 2023, and check out what Banned Books we have in our catalog from our Banned Books Reading List!
Published September 22, 2024