Banned Book Week

Over the past decade more than 5,000 book challenges were reported to the Office for Intellectual Freedom. This past year alone over 300 books were in danger of being banned in different schools and libraries across the nation.

The American Library Association, and public libraries across the country as well as advocates observe this week as Banned Book Week to highlight a core value of libraries. To be sanctuaries for all different issues and opinions.

"Overall we try to let all sides of issues be represented in the collection, as well as popular use items" says Blair Tom.

Blair Tom, Assistant Director of the Muskingum County Library System says that the selection policy for the area library materials is based on community needs and interests. While materials will be reviewed if there is any concern about a particular item, tom feels it is a personal decision on what to expose yourself or your family to.

"We think families are best positioned to determine what is appropriate for their families and the public libraries is just meant to have the menu of choices available."

Books that have been banned in different parts of the country have ranged from classics such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" to contemporary works including "Harry Potter".