SLANZA Banned/Challenged Book toolkit

Suzanne Livett

During April 2023 we held a ‘discussion’ event in our Facebook Connected Community Group - What is book banning? Has it arrived in Aotearoa and what can we do about it? An online discussion.

Whilst SLANZA doesn’t believe that ‘book banning’ is prevalent in Aotearoa New Zealand, we are nonetheless concerned that this serious matter is quickly developing overseas and about the increasing media around this topic. We are mindful that we need to be ready in case these types of challenges increase in the wider library sector here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Here are the articles, links and resources shared:

• Empower Your Library Against Book Bans - Get to know the current state of book challenges across the U.S. with a look at what led to this particular censorship movement. This presentation offered not only the terminology and groups associated with book challenges in public schools and libraries within and beyond New York; it also offered insight into how to build strong challenge policies, craft effective responses to book challenges, and connect your community allies to ensure your public institution remains committed to information access for all. Released Aug 9, 2022.

• Complaints about library items - When someone objects to or challenges a library resource you’ve selected, it’s helpful to have a process for handling the situation. Balancing your aim of an inclusive collection against the diverse opinions in your community needs good communications. This NLNZ resource takes the reader through the process of creating a robust policy.

• Judy Blume: book banning now much worse in US than in 1980sThe Guardian article by Emily Dugan - April 3rd 2023

• Libraries issued with instructions for securing buildings a protesters try to remove LGTBQ+ books for young people Irish Times article by Carl O’Brien - Mon April 3rd 2023

• Be Prepared: Censorship Resources - ‘It’s hard to avoid news of book bans and challenges around the country right now. We want to take this opportunity to remind you of some resources we’ve put together for librarians, educators, and others interested in preserving access to books.’ - Lerner Books Blog

• Banned Books Resources ASLA 2023

Banned Books – Implications for Teacher Librarians, Suzanne Livett, Head of Library Services, Somerville House, Brisbane