Looking to young adults during Banned Books Week

Banned Books Week is coming up September 18 - 24, 2022. It is a national, annual event celebrating the freedom to read. In recent years, some of the most frequently challenged books from across the nation have been written for, by, and about young adults and emerging adults. In fact, according to the American Library Association, the most frequently challenged books of 2021 were ALL from Young Adult or Emerging Adult genres.

Gen Z reads boldly and broadly, which is pretty cool. Maybe we can see what that's all about by following their lead. Warning: these books contain themes that make a lot of folks uncomfortable and may not be appropriate for everyone. Some of these books might not be right for you or your family. But that's the beauty of it- the freedom to read also means being able to say, "nope, not for me."

If you are looking for something a little less controversial, check out our Feast on Books Blog for librarian-recommended books that you can filter by genre. STILL can't find what you are hoping to borrow? You can suggest a purchase and let us know that there might be something we overlooked.

Banned or challenged books by, for, or about Young Adults

#1 most challenged book of 2021, Gender Queer

Emerging Adult Graphic Novel

Read the graphic novel, eBook on Hoopla, or Libby/Overdrive eBook.

##2 most challenged book of 2021 Lawn Boy

Adult, with an emerging adult protagonist

Read the b ook, CD audiobook, or Libby/Overdrive eBook. Request the large print, or Playaway.

#3 most challenged book 2021 All Boys Aren't Blue

Adult/Young Adult biography

Read the b ook, digital audiobook on Hoopla, Libby/Overdrive eBook, or Libby/Overdrive digital audiobook. Request the CD audiobook.

#4 most challenged book of 2021 Out of Darness

Young Adult Historical Fiction

Read the b ook, Libby/Overdrive eBook, or Libby/Overdrive digital audiobook. Request the CD audiobook.

#5 most challenged book of 2021 The Hate U Give

Children's and Young Adult Award Winner

Read the b ook, CD audiobook, ebook on Hoopla, Libby/Overdrive eBook, or Libby/Overdrive digital audiobook. Request the Playaway or L arge Print.

Speaking of Young Adults.
Upcoming programs just for tween and teens:

Teen Felted Cat in a Box
Thurs., Oct. 27, 6 PM

Starting Wed., Sept 21
Grades 6-12

Two session with The Princeton Review next week

If you've made it this far, check out some community notices and events:

Design Public Hearing: Reconstruction of Route 30 in Weston

The purpose of the hearing is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed roadway project. The hearing is taking place virtually on September 22, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.
Learn More & Access the Public Hearing

Good luck WHS Athletics!

Fall sports are in full swing and the library wanted to wish all WHS athletes good luck in their seasons.

For more information on when you can cheer on your Weston Wildcats, check out the WHS athletic schedule.