Banned Books Week: Read for Your Rights

The banner reads, "Banned Books Week Oct. 5-11, 2025, Censorship is so 1984. Read for your Rights," with the word "censorship" crossed out in red.

by Sahana C.

This year’s Banned Books Week feels important. The weight of headlines, especially about libraries across the country facing cuts, having collections challenged, and seeing their communities divided, creates an opportunity to reflect on what we gain by taking our time with banned and challenged books.
The American Library Association’s 2025 theme is direct: “Censorship Is So 1984. Read for Your Rights.” It’s a bold reminder that the freedom to read is not just about what is on the shelves.

The reference to George Orwell’s 1984, an often-banned dystopian novel that depicts the role of censorship in rewriting history, speaks to the struggles that public libraries have faced recently. Our community values intellectual freedom, diversity of opinion, and freedom of expression, and the theme reminds us that speaking up is more urgent than ever. It’s said each year, but we’ve seen historic levels of book challenges, especially for books that center the voices of LGBTQ+ people, Black and Brown communities, and those navigating complex identities. Books are being pulled from shelves not because they’re harmful, but because they make some people uncomfortable. But that discomfort is often the beginning of growth – learning that “different” isn’t automatically “wrong.”

Public libraries were built on the radical idea that knowledge belongs to everyone. We’re not just warehouses of books; we’re places where curiosity is nurtured, differences are respected, and freedom is practiced daily. This Banned Books Week we invite you to stand with us. Borrow a banned book. Join a discussion. Ask questions. Speak up. Share your story. Remind your neighbors that free access to ideas is not a luxury – it’s the foundation of democracy.

In Orwell’s 1984, censorship is used to control truth and rewrite history. This Banned Books Week, we push back. We read boldly. We resist silence. We protect stories, especially the ones that are under threat of erasure.

Here’s a curated list of nonfiction titles that are frequently challenged.

Sahana is the Communications Strategist at HCLS. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

Harriet Tubman: Live In Concert

A beige and black cover show a chain with a broken link above a small photograph of hands holding a microphone, with the cord looping off to the right.

by Sahana C.

Drag Race fans: Bob the Drag Queen wrote a book. I wasn’t going to miss this one, especially since it asked the age-old question: what would the ones who came before us think about how we are today? 

In Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert, Harriet Tubman, among other historical figures who everyone has heard of (though not Jesus, as Bob the Drag Queen makes sure to tell us), comes back from the dead. She picks a blacklisted, gay, music producer to help her achieve her next-greatest life work: making a hip hop album that will free people’s minds. It’s a cute premise, and the themes of freedom are present throughout. Harriet Tubman isn’t the only historical figure of note, just the lead singer of the band. She’s accompanied by her band, the Freedmen, who were all freed thanks to her leadership and who all have their own stories to share.  

This is a debut and some points feel like it, but the overall story is charming, funny, and really imparts a love of history. It is quasi-historical fiction written by an author with immense love of the historical figure at the center, and that’s evident beyond anything else. I’d especially recommend the audiobook, since Bob the Drag Queen reads it with her signature charm and aplomb. Original songs are also included – fully produced numbers that add so much fun to the listening experience – performed by Bob the Drag Queen so it’s incredible.  

Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert by Bob the Drag Queen is available in print, e-book, and e-audiobook.

Sahana is the Communications Strategist at HCLS. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

Agatha Christie in the English Countryside

by Sahana C.

Like any self-respecting book nerd, I can only go on vacation if I have at least five books ready and on hand at any time. This was trouble when I was younger, before e-books and e-audiobooks, with backpacks and suitcases full to the brim with tomes. My worst-case scenario was always that I would run out of things to read.  

I went on vacation around Britain recently, and, as is my wont, brought eight different novels with me in various formats. Sure, I brought a few too many physical books, and yes, maybe I bought a book or two on the trip to weigh down my backpack. I felt adequately prepared, as I was taking train rides through the English countryside and knew that I would want to embody the aesthetic of reading whatever I had in hand, only to look up at rolling fields dotted with sheep, old worn walls of stacked rocks dividing the endless green into pastures.  

As always happens on vacation, though… I felt a craving. I was on a train. In England. Arguably there was only one author who could scratch the itch. I had read Murder on the Orient Express too recently and watched the movie even more recently, so I went onto Libby to see if anything was “Available Now” and found one of my all-time favorite Agatha Christie mysteries: And Then There Were None.  

I had read the book before, but not for years, and I was immediately immersed in the atmospheric gloom hanging over the description of the story’s central island. I arrived in Oxford, and while the day was gloriously sunny, the evening became overcast. As I curled into bed, I fell into the world of the ten main characters, each with something devious and criminal to hide, from Vera Claythorne to Phillip Lombard to Justice Wargrave. It took me two and a half hours to tear through the thriller, which gets the ball rolling early and never allows the momentum to stop.  

The original title of the book and the changes made to it have a history that has to be acknowledged as racist and problematic. There was no reason to include racism in the novel, especially such casual racism. The nursery rhyme that is the basis for the novel is a disappointing reflection of our history. But this book, plot-wise, is an impressive example of Christie’s talent, ability, and intellect. This is the locked room mystery to end all locked room mysteries, one that is nigh impossible for the reader to solve all the way through because of the masterclass in subjective narrators.  

It was a delight to read Christie as an American in England for the first time, to sit on a train as it trundled by coastlines that Christie took care to describe herself. I’d suggest, for others interested in what books to read as they travel: let the trip inform you. Give your surroundings a chance to suggest a good book or two. There’s nothing better than recognizing the view in front of you in the book you’re holding.  

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie is available to borrow in print, e-book, e-audiobook and audio on CD. There are also two ways to watch adaptations, a recent TV series and a classic movie.

Sahana is the Communications Strategist at HCLS. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

Celebrate Disability Pride Month with Beyond Words at HCLS

Several people sit around an arts and crafts station working on projects.
Participants and caregivers step into the fun and active world of Beyond Words, a vibrant and inclusive monthly class designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination of young people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. at the East Columbia Branch of Howard County Library System.

by Sahana C.

Libraries aspire to be welcoming, inclusive spaces for everyone. During Disability Pride Month this July, we want to highlight Beyond Words, one of our sensory-friendly classes designed with and for neurodivergent individuals — and anyone who benefits from a more adaptable, engaging learning environment!

Disability Pride Month reminds us to honor the uniqueness of every individual and to recognize disability as an essential part of human diversity. We know that learning looks different for everyone, and that’s something worth celebrating. Beyond Words is a do-it-yourself sort of class, with an emphasis on creativity, movement, and hands-on activities built around themed, sensory-rich stations. From arts and crafts to motor skills and movement play, the program encourages joy, exploration, and connection in ways that feel comfortable and are accessible. Beyond Words started at Miller Branch, but the class has now spread to the East Columbia, Central, and Savage Branches, with an option for every age group.

A rainbow circle broken by clouds, has Beyond Words written above it in purple and a set of icons below the clouds: music notes, a sunflower, a stack of books, a paint palette, and a baseball.

This year, we’re really excited about the Beyond Words Summer Reading game, too! While Summer Reading began on June 1, it’s not too late to pick up a specially designed gameboard at any HCLS branch or the mobile library. Like our traditional summer reading program, this version encourages participants to read, explore, and complete activities — but it’s been thoughtfully adapted to meet different needs and learning styles. The goal? To make summer reading more inclusive, flexible, and most of all, fun for everyone. The Beyond Words gameboard includes a variety of ways to participate and celebrate progress. There’s no one right way to take part—just lots of opportunities to discover new interests, build confidence, and enjoy the magic of stories and imagination.

Teen Beyond Words
Wed, Jul 23 | 6 – 7:30 pm  
HCLS East Columbia Branch
For 11-17. Register at bit.ly/TBW_723
For teens with learning/developmental disabilities. Come and participate at five different activity stations. This month’s theme: SUMMER.

Sahana is an Instructor and Research Specialist at HCLS Savage Branch. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

Gun Locks at Two HCLS Branches

Yellow diamond shaped sign reads Safety First.

Starting Friday, May 16, the East Columbia and Elkridge Branches began gun lock distribution. 

Howard County Library System is proud to partner with the Howard County Health Department on a new initiative to distribute free gun safety locks to the public. This effort is part of a broader public health approach to promote safe gun storage in our community. 

Between 2019 and 2023, nearly 40% of suicide deaths in Howard County involved a firearm. For adults ages 20 and older, firearms were the leading method of suicide. A gun safety lock can create a critical moment of pause—one that could save a life. Like seatbelts or smoke detectors, gun locks are a simple, effective tool to help keep our homes safe. 

Gun safety locks are now available at the East Columbia and Elkridge Branches, free of charge and while supplies last. Residents of Howard County who are 18 or older can request up to two locks per day—no ID or proof of residency is required. Staff will simply ask for your ZIP code and how you heard about the program to help assess community needs. Each lock includes two keys, instructions, and a bookmark with a QR code that links to additional resources online. 

Please note that firearms are never permitted inside library buildings. Library staff are unable to assist with installing the locks, but the included instructions and online resources can help. Customers may also choose to contact their local police department for further guidance. 

This program is modeled after a successful initiative in Anne Arundel County and is supported by the VA Maryland Health Care System. It reflects a shared commitment between Howard County institutions to reduce harm and support the health and safety of our neighbors. 

A vertical flyer that shows a gun lock, the logos for Howard County Police Department and Howard County Library System, and a QR Code.

We invite you to stop by to pick up a gun lock, learn more, and take one small but meaningful step toward a safer community!

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available 24/7 through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. 

Women Poets

The top half of the cover is white with Mary Oliver in blue, and the bottom half is ochre with A Poetry Handbook in white.

by Sahana C.

March’s Women’s History Month and April’s National Poetry Month offer the perfect chance to celebrate some remarkable women poets in our collection. Across generations, their voices have turned shared experiences into art at all levels, teaching us about love, identity, resilience, and nature. Here are a few notable names whose works you should check out:

Emily Dickinson must be included in any list about women poets. She wrote with an intensity and originality that set her apart in 19th-century American literature. Her compact, untitled poems challenge conventions, exploring themes of death, nature, and the self with wit and depth.

Maya Angelou, a powerhouse of literature and activism, weaves autobiography and poetry to speak of struggle and triumph. Her groundbreaking poem “Still I Rise” affirms the resilience of the human spirit and is a testament to hope despite all odds.

Joy Harjo was the first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate, and her work reflects that identity. Her poems often blend moments from her heritage and upbringing with vivid musicality. Her anthology, Living Nations, Living Words brings many Native poets to the forefront and connects past injustices to present resilience.

Mary Oliver is a consummate naturalist. Her poetry, though deceptively simple in form, encourages readers to reflect on nature’s quiet wisdom and the profound lessons it offers. These are the perfect poems to meditate on, mull over, and chew on. Oliver is also the author of one of the seminal handbooks about reading and writing poetry, A Poetry Handbook.

A bright yellow cover shows fancy scrolls in red framing the title, The Hill We Climb, which is in blue.

Rupi Kaur is the most contemporary by far on this list but she deserves a mention for her contemporary style, which has redefined poetry for a digital age. With poignant reflections on love, trauma, and healing, Kaur connects with a new generation of readers through her evocative, minimalist verse.

Amanda Gorman, the first National Youth Poet Laureate, brings her background, her activism, and her fire to her poetry. She was first put on the map with her poem “The Hill We Climb,” which is a testament to community, togetherness, and solidarity.

Ada Limón, the current U.S. Poet Laureate, captures the beauty and complexity of everyday life. Her work is both profound and accessible, imbued with a rich emotional resonance.

Celebrate these poets by exploring their works, available in our collection. Let their words inspire you this spring!

Family Story and Craft: Poet-Tree
Families, ages 6+. Ticket required.
Celebrate National Poetry Month by listening to some poetry and creating a Poet-Tree craft.
Tue, Apr 29 at 6:30 – 7 pm
HCLS Miller Branch

Revisiting Old Favorites

A colorful boxed set of all seven Chronicles of Narnia books.

by Sahana C.

Sometimes mere escapism isn’t enough. Sometimes you need to really dig deep and find a distraction from endless online scrolling, so you can sit down and get back to a book. Sometimes you need to revisit an old – and I mean nostalgic old – favorite.

I’ve been rereading The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis for much of February, after not touching them in any way for maybe 15 years. Let me tell you – some of it really does not hold up. I chose to listen to the books this time, chasing, perhaps, some long-lost childhood feeling of being read to and trying to visualize the world as each chapter progressed. It made all the blatant anti-Arab sentiment a lot worse, and it made obvious the problematic writing of an Oxford don existing safely within the walls of the British Empire at her zenith.  

Still, I found myself caught up in the magic, in the sheer scope of the ever-expanding world Lewis built. Even when the metaphors hit you over the head, even when the pacing is uneven, there’s something about these books — some mix of whimsy, sincerity, heart, and adventure — that draws readers back, generation after generation.  

I’ve read the books in publication order before. This time I went for in-world chronology, and it’s apparent that The Magician’s Nephew is not a strong start to the series, as fun as the story is. As a starting point for the world, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the quintessential Narnia book for a reason – the highs and lows are epic, the enemy looms, and the heroes are authentic and full of heart. The backdrop of the second World War is apparent throughout, and the in-world nostalgia lends a sparkle over the whole story. The wonder of Lucy’s first steps into Narnia and the cozy charm of Mr. Tumnus’ home are hard to beat.

Prince Caspian and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader are fun for being some of our first repeats with characters and through-lines within Narnia itself. Despite being one of the worst offenders in terms of blatant Orientalism, The Horse and His Boy will always have a special place in my heart as a pure adventure story, moving from Calormen to Archenland. It’s fun to experience Narnia during the reign of the Pevensies. Much like Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair expands the world around Narnia, giving us Marshwiggles and Bism. It has a heavy atmosphere that leads well into the final, most apocalyptic book, The Last Battle, where finally Narnia ends. Listening to each book (about five hours long each, and available on Libby) does make it obvious that C.S. Lewis had an agenda, but all fairy tales can give us morals if we’re looking.

Do these books still work? Yes and no. There’s plenty to critique, but the sense of wonder remains. If nothing else, rereading them made me realize how much childhood nostalgia smooths over the flaws of beloved books. But maybe that’s what revisiting old favorites is for — seeing them clearly, appreciating what they gave us, and questioning what they left out.  

Sahana is the Communications Strategist at HCLS. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

New Year, New Adventures

A round ornament shape, studded with multi-colored lights, reads Happy New Year - 2025 all in pink.

by Sahana C.

As we flip our calendars to the new year, we set goals for ourselves, knowingly or unknowingly. Maybe this is the year we decide to learn to sew, or we plan a dream vacation to somewhere where people speak a different language. Whether you’re dreaming of picking up a new hobby, improving your skills, or simply finding more time for yourself, the library can help you make those resolutions stick. No matter your goal, there are more than a few ways Howard County Library System can be a part of your “something new” this year.

A Linked In Learning ad that shows a person standing by a desk, with a calendar and a clock behind them, and a dog under the desk. It reads: 1: Set a learning goal. 2. Creat a plan. 3. Knock it out of the park!

Ready to master the art of sourdough, learn Spanish, or tackle coding? Our online resources have you covered. With platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Mango Languages, and Gale Courses, you can dive into everything from baking to business analytics — at your own pace and for free!

If moving more is on your list, we’ve got tools to keep you motivated. Check out our collection of fitness books, yoga DVDs, and meditation guides for some free inspiration. Or, stream workout videos through digital resources like Hoopla and Kanopy.l

Maybe you’ve resolved to read more this year (or just read at all). Our monthly book clubs, personalized recommendations from your friendly local librarians, decorated displays, and endless supply of audiobooks, eBooks, and physical titles are great places to start.

Or, perhaps, you want to figure out what’s going on with all this tech. Digital devices can help you work smarter, not harder, but learning them takes time. Our classes on topics like 3D printing, social media, and generative AI will make you feel like a tech pro in no time, and if you want to start at an intro level, you can book time with one of our incredible instructors for a tech one-on-one.

It’s not just about the goals you set — it’s about the people you meet along the way. Whether you’re attending a craft workshop, exploring local history, or seeing us out in the community, you’ll find spaces to connect and share your journey.

At the library, we believe every year is a chance to grow, create, and connect. No matter what your resolution looks like, we’re ready to help you turn “I’ll try” into “I did it!” Visit your local branch or explore our website to get started. We can’t wait to see what you achieve this year!

An old fashioned wooden signpost with arrows reads Get Uncomfortable or Change Course. A desert highway appears in the background.

Set Up Your Business for Success
For adults. Register now.
Kelvin Abrams, author of Get Uncomfortable or Change Course: Understanding What It Takes to Be an Entrepreneur, helps new and aspiring entrepreneurs learn what it takes to run a small business, providing solid advice to achieve their goals and be more successful. A powerful storyteller, Kelvin draws on his experience and uses a variety of insightful anecdotes to share his message. He explains the need to get creative in the face of change, the importance of a solid business plan, how to hire employees, how to work with banks, and more.
Mon, Jan 13 | 6 – 7:30 pm
HCLS East Columbia Branch

Sahana is an Instructor and Research Specialist at HCLS Savage Branch. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.

Winter Holidays + Classes

A fat red pillar candle burns, framed by a pinecone and holly berries.

by Sahana C.

As the dark days at the end of the year approach, we look to holidays and gatherings to bring us together with loved ones. Across the world, there are traditions for people to come together in warm places, with good food, to celebrate being sheltered from the cold. We often see a lot about Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa in the media, but winter holidays extend beyond those, from the Festival of Lights to Solstice celebrations. The dark months are a great time to come together, reflect, and curl up with a good book.

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights celebrated predominantly in India, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. And around the time of the winter solstice, many cultures have festivals that celebrate the return of the sun and the gradual lengthening of days. Yule, or Midwinter, is an ancient pagan festival observed by Germanic peoples. It involves decorating with evergreens, burning a Yule log, and feasting. The winter solstice also marks the beginning of Bodhi Day for Buddhists, commemorating the enlightenment of Buddha under the Bodhi tree.

Not everything during the dark days is warm however; if you’re looking for a scary story to keep you tucked warm underneath your sheets, explore the stories of Krampusnacht, celebrated on December 5 in the Alpine regions of Europe. Krampus is a horned, demonic figure who accompanies St. Nicholas, punishing misbehaving children in contrast to St. Nick’s rewarding of the good. Explore our collection of folklore and mythology books to learn more about this captivating figure.

Whether you’re indulging in festive treats, or simply enjoying the cozy company of loved ones, the winter holidays offer a chance to embrace the darkness and find the light within. Visit your local branch to explore books, films, and resources that delve deeper into these rich cultural traditions and tell your local librarians about your own favorite winter holidays, as we keep each other in the light this year.

How to Wrap (Almost) Anything
For ages 10+ and adults. Learn more at bit.ly/wrap_anything
Learn how to wrap gifts of varying shapes and sizes this holiday season. All materials (including wrapping paper and boxes to practice on) are provided, and you are also welcome to bring your own.
Tue, Dec 3 from 7 – 8 pm at HCLS Glenwood Branch
Sat, Dec 21 from 11 am – 12 pm at HCLS Glenwood Branch

Jan Brett’s The Mitten: Story and Dramatic Play
Ages 5 – 8. Ticket required. Tickets available 15 minutes before class.
Cozy up and celebrate the winter season with Jan Brett’s classic adaptation of the Ukrainian folktale, The Mitten! Act out the story and make an adorable craft.
Tue, Dec 3 from 6:30 – 7:15 pm at HCLS Central Branch

Family Movie Time: Encanto
Día de las Velitas/Little Candle Day

All ages/Families.
Let’s celebrate “Little Candles’ Day” by watching Encanto and making a craft related with this traditional Colombian holiday which takes place every year on December 7. The tradition consists of lighting candles and lanterns.
Encanto (2021) Rated PG
Deep in the Colombian mountains, the Madrigal family possesses an extraordinary secret. Each member of the family is able to perform magic, except for 15-year-old Mirabel, who does not seem to possess any unusual abilities.Mirabel struggles to reconcile her place within her family while searching for who she truly is.
Sat, Dec 7 from 2 – 4 pm at HCLS Elkridge Branch

Winter Celebration
All ages. Tickets available 15 minutes before start of class.
Winter time is here! Listen to stories, learn about what animals do in the winter, and make awesome crafts to celebrate the season.
Sat, Dec 28 from 2 – 2:45 pm at HCLS Elkridge Branch

Noon Year’s Eve
Families. Ticket required. Free tickets available 15 minutes before class.
It’s Noon Year’s Eve! Not staying awake until midnight? Ring in the new year early with stories, dancing, and a special countdown.
Tue, Dec 31 from 11:30 am – 12:15 pm at HCLS Savage Branch

Banned Books Week: Sep 22 – 28

Yellow caution tape stretches across an arrangement of books, all of which are perennially on the challenged book list. They include 1984 by George Orwell, The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, and Tango Makes Three.

by Sahana C.

Howard County Library System is your place to learn, grow, and connect. As a library, one of the best ways we know to bolster learning, to encourage growth, and to promote connection happens through books. It’s why we have such a vast range of topics, themes, identities, and authors represented in our collection. It’s why we have so many different book clubs across all our branches, and so many ways to access them. It’s why you’ll see the On the Road to Kindergarten van in your neighborhood and at schools with books to borrow. While the library is not just about books (we’re proud of all our resources and collections), our books are a large part of what brings us closer to our community.

In recent years, the challenges and objections to different titles in libraries across the country have made major headlines, including the state of Maryland. We now live in a state with a Freedom to Read Act, which asserts intellectual freedom as lawful and denounces censorship plainly, which is not the case nationally. To highlight stories that are challenged or censored, the American Library Association (ALA) celebrates Banned Books Week each year. Banned Books Week started in 1982 as a response to book challenges and has turned into a national celebration of literature.

To celebrate Banned Books Week this year, visit your local library branch and check out the displays and resources about different titles that have been challenged. And, for even more immersion, hop online each day of Banned Books Week at noon for our virtual Banned Books Read-a-thon. With a new title each day, we will discuss a work that has been banned or challenged in some form, and read an excerpt of the text.

The ALA’s theme for Banned Books Week 2024 is “Freed Between the Lines,” and it asks readers everywhere to consider the ways that books can help us explore new ideas, understand the world around us, and find freedom. It encourages us to delve deeper and be unafraid to be creative with our understandings of the books we read.

Banned Books Week Read-A-Thon
For adults. Register to receive the link.
Learn about the history and significance of Banned Books Week, then listen to a reading from a frequently challenged book. You can join every day or just for the ones that interest you.
Mon- Fri | 12 – 1 pm | online
Mon, Sep 23
1984 by George Orwell

Tue, Sep 24
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Wed, Sep 25
Looking for Alaska by John Green

Thu, Sep 26
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Fri, Sep 27: Children’s picture books
Nasreen’s Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan and The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq, written and illustrated by Jeanette Winter.
This Day in June, written by Gayle E. Pitman and illustrated by Kristyna Litten.
And Tango Makes Three, written by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell and illustrated by Henry Cole.

Sahana is an Instructor and Research Specialist at HCLS Savage Branch. They enjoy adding books to their “want to read” list despite having a mountain of books waiting for them already.