Banned Bookathon 2026

Join us as we celebrate Banned Books Week, October 4 – 10, 2026. This year’s theme is “Let Books Be. Protect the Freedom to Read.” “Banned Books Week is a celebration of the freedom to read and the joy that comes from discovering stories that expand our understanding of ourselves and one another,” said American Library Association President Sam Helmick. “Every person has the right to seek information and choose books without censorship. When we say ‘Let Books Be,’ we’re showing up for readers everywhere and reaffirming that libraries are for everyone.” On Tuesday, October 6, Lenox Library invites you to proclaim your joy of reading during our all-day Banned Bookathon. Sign up for a 15-minute timeslot(s) to read from your favorite banned book. Need inspiration? Check out this list of the top 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books: 2010-2019 or one of our banned books displays. All bookathon readers will be entered into a raffle to win a Banned Book Bundle with some of our librarians’ favorite “banned” items! We hope you’ll join us in standing up for – and celebrating – our freedom to read!