Banned Books Week is taking place at all Del Mar College Libraries, aiming to invoke critical thinking, challenging ideas students may (or may not) disagree with.
Organized nationally by the American Library Association starting in 1982, every year since has gone to highlight the importance of the concept for students and all individuals alike, about the ills of censorship. The nationwide theme this year is “Censorship Is So 1984 — Read for Your Rights.”
The DMC Libraries participate annually in the endeavor to foster conversations of freedom of speech, as well as the freedom to choose what literature or media they engage with. The libraries post the ALA-compiled list of the Top 10 Most Challenged Books, which includes popular media like “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” and “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl.” In solidarity with the ALA, DMC Libraries are hosting a film screening of the notoriously challenged work, “Fahrenheit 451,” on Thursday, Oct. 9 from 1-3 p.m., serving popcorn to all attendees who join inside of the three library locations.
The 2018 film is an adaptation of the famously banned book. Outreach and Programming Librarian Kathy Westergren spoke to the irony of banning the book, which is about the dystopian fear of banning books. The book covers themes about censorship, rebellious ideas, and depictions of burning books. Even its film counterpart has faced contention for strong language, its portrayal of government control, and content considered unacceptable for some schools.
According to censorship statistics gathered by the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, in 2024 there were 2,542 unique title challenges, the third highest number ever documented by the ALA. Seventy-two percent of the 2024 challenges to censor media in school and public libraries came from pressure groups and government entities that include elected officials, board members and administrators, showcasing that a majority of book censorship attempts are now from organized movements.
“If someone doesn’t appreciate [literature], they don’t have to read it. They’re not being forced to read it. What we’re trying to do is make sure everybody has the freedom to explore,” said Kathy Westergren on the essence of celebrating banned books week for DMC.