Freedom to Read Week 2025

Freedom to Read Week 2025 (February 23rd to March 1st)

Freedom to Read Week is a yearly event that inspires Canadians to reflect on and reaffirm their dedication to intellectual freedom. Canada has a strong tradition of free expression but also a history of censorship, with books often removed from libraries and classrooms silently. Freedom to Read Week was founded in 1984 and raises awareness of censorship issues and encourages Canadians to defend their rights to publish, read, and write freely. The event has become a staple in schools, libraries, and literary groups, featuring activities like student video contests and public readings of challenged materials, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression. In fact, our very own libraries have displays dedicated to Freedom to Read Week, and if you live in the area, I strongly encourage you to check them out!

To learn more about Freedom to Read Week, CLICK HERE!

The South Central Regional Library Board supports the principles laid down the the Canadian Library Association’s Statement On Intellectual Freedom, which states in part, that “[it] is the responsibility of libraries to guarantee and facilitate access to all expressions of knowledge and intellectual activity including those which some elements of society may consider to be unconventional, unpopular or unacceptable. To this end, libraries shall acquire and make available the widest variety of materials. Libraries should resist all efforts to limit the exercise of these responsibilities while recognizing the right of criticism by individuals and groups.”

Responsibility for what children read rests with their parents or legal guardians

What's the difference between a challenged, and a banned book?

A "challenged" book refers to a book that someone has attempted to have removed from an institution (such as schools or libraries, etc.) due to their personal opinions or beliefs. If the challenge is successful, the book may then be banned.