Reading Without Restrictions: Why Banned Books Still Matter

Julia Kuczynski
Nov 16, 2025
4 min read

Updated: Dec 27, 2025

By Julia Kuczynski

11/16/25

Why Are Books Being Banned?

Have you ever wondered why a book you might enjoy in school suddenly disappears from the shelves? Books are more than just stories; they are windows into people’s lives, reflections of history, and tools for empathy. Yet in recent years, more and more titles are being challenged or removed from libraries and classrooms. A banned book is one that has been formally restricted after a challenge, which happens when someone attempts to remove it. These challenges often come from organized groups, school boards, or community organizations rather than just concerned parents. This shows that censorship today is increasingly coordinated. So why are we silencing stories instead of encouraging conversation?

The Surprising Surge in Book Bans

Did you know that in 2023, the American Library Association documented over 4,200 unique book titles being challenged? And 2024 has continued that trend. Many of these challenges target public libraries and school districts, affecting millions of students. The surge in book bans comes from a mix of organized pressure groups, political scrutiny over curriculum, disagreements about what is “appropriate,” and discomfort with controversial topics. Whatever the reason, the outcome is the same: fewer perspectives, fewer ideas, and fewer opportunities for critical thinking. Isn’t it ironic that in a country that values free speech, we are limiting what students can read?

The Impact of Book Bans on Society

Book bans do not just affect individual readers; they have broader implications for society. When books are removed from shelves, entire narratives are silenced. This can lead to a homogenized view of the world, where only certain perspectives are deemed acceptable. The diversity of thought is crucial for a healthy society. By limiting access to various viewpoints, we risk creating an environment where critical thinking is stifled.

The Role of Education in Promoting Freedom

Education plays a vital role in promoting freedom of expression. Schools should be safe spaces for exploring diverse ideas. When students are exposed to a range of literature, they learn to think critically and engage with complex issues. Banning books undermines this educational mission. It is essential for educators to advocate for intellectual freedom and ensure that students have access to a wide array of materials.

Why You Should Read Banned Books

So why bother reading books that others want to ban? Because banned books expose us to new ideas, challenge our thinking, and let us see perspectives we might never encounter otherwise. Book bans limit freedom, silence important voices, and create a chilling effect where teachers and librarians may self-censor, avoiding books that spark meaningful conversation. For young readers, losing access to these stories means losing opportunities for growth, reflection, and empathy. If we don’t read them, how can we understand the world beyond our own experiences?

Classics That Still Get Challenged

Some of the most commonly banned books are familiar classics. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird faces challenges for its depictions of racial violence and slurs, yet it teaches lessons about justice and moral courage. J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye often gets banned for profanity and teen rebellion. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is targeted for its portrayal of alcohol use, infidelity, and morally questionable behavior, despite being a critique of the American Dream. Ironically, Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, a book warning against censorship, has itself been banned for violence and anti-authoritarian themes. George Orwell’s 1984 is challenged for political content and dark depictions of totalitarian control. These books make us think, question, and empathize, which is exactly why they matter.

Fighting Back Against Censorship

What can we do about it? Organizations like the American Library Association and PEN America encourage public engagement, reading, and advocacy. Events like Banned Books Week highlight the importance of intellectual freedom and the right to access diverse ideas. Grassroots activism—such as read-outs, letter-writing campaigns, and community discussions—helps protect books from disappearing. Civic engagement isn’t just about voting; it’s also about defending ideas, stories, and voices. If we don’t stand up for banned books, who will?

Why Reading Without Restrictions Matters

Banned books aren’t just a library issue—they are a civic one. They force us to ask important questions about who decides what we can read and which stories are considered “acceptable.” At a time when censorship is on the rise, defending the freedom to read is a meaningful civic action. By reading, sharing, and advocating for challenged books, we ensure that diverse voices are not silenced. This allows readers of all ages to continue to learn, grow, and see the world through multiple perspectives. After all, if we let fear decide what we read, what ideas might we be missing?

The Future of Literature and Freedom

Looking ahead, the future of literature and freedom hinges on our collective actions today. We must remain vigilant against censorship and advocate for the right to read freely. This means supporting libraries, promoting diverse literature, and engaging in discussions about the importance of access to information. The fight against book bans is not just about preserving titles; it’s about safeguarding our right to think critically and engage with the world around us.