Description
Meriam Library wishes to grow its collection of books that have been banned or challenged in the United States. Currently, the library owns 84 banned books; 44 of those were published prior to 1990. Due to the age of these titles, these books are damaged, worn, and in many cases, falling apart. Your donation would enable the library to replace our existing damaged titles and to purchase recently published banned books. This would also allow the library to diversify its collection as many banned books elevate themes related to LGBTQ+ characters and / or characters of color.
How will your donations be used?
Banned Books Collection Development: Combating Censorship.
$15 - a hard cover children's book or young adult (YA) novel
$20 - a contemporary novel or work of nonfiction
$25 - a graphic novel
Support our Success
Our objective is to acquire and provide access to books on diverse and sometimes controversial topics for students to borrow and read.
According to the American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom, more than 4,200 unique book titles were targeted for censorship in 2023; 47% of those attempts were titles that represented "the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals."
Donations in support of banned or challenged books would allow the library to ensure its collection better represents Chico State students and their lived experiences. Each fall, Meriam Library acknowledges Banned Books week with a book display and a Freedom to Read Open Mic Night. During the open mic event, students and campus community members are invited to read a short excerpt from their favorite banned book and affirm their First Amendment right to free speech.
Why are donations necessary
Meriam Library needs donations in order to provide our patrons with more contemporary titles, these donations will also help us to replace worn or damaged titles that are still circulating in our collection. All donations will be used to purchase books that have been banned or challenged in the U.S.. Anyone with a Meriam Library card will be able to check out the books; those who don't have a Meriam Library card can still peruse our shelves and read the materials within the library building. Your support ensures that Meriam Library is a safe place where all voices can be heard and all stories told.