Freedom to Read Week
Oakville Public Library is celebrating Freedom to Read Week, an annual event that encourages Canadians to reflect on and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom.
What is Freedom to Read?
Public libraries play a crucial role in protecting books and other materials from censorship. By ensuring access to a diverse range of knowledge, ideas, and opinions, libraries help uphold democracy. This is more important than ever in today’s information-driven world.
Challenged Materials in Canada and Around the World
Books, movies, newspapers, and other materials are frequently challenged in Canada and around the world. These challenges seek to limit public access to certain works in schools, libraries, and bookstores.
Visit the Freedom to Read website to explore numerous materials that have been challenged internationally in past decades.
Intellectual Freedom at OPL
Oakville Public Library is committed to protecting and defending intellectual freedom across our collections, programs and spaces. Our collection includes materials that cover diverse topics, beliefs, and opinions, allowing readers to explore, learn, and grow without restrictions.
We also provide use of public computers, laptops, tablets, networks, Creation Zone equipment, digital devices and services to support access to information. Please view OPL’s Internet Access and Acceptable Use Policy here.
Visit this Intellectual Freedom information page to learn more.
How does OPL select materials?
Our collection development policy ensures that OPL acquires materials of current interest and lasting value. We strive to build a diverse collection that reflects different viewpoints, experiences, and cultures.
How can you take part in Freedom to Read Week?
Visit the Tower of Banned Books at Central Branch
Starting February 24, OPL’s Central Branch will host The Tower of Banned Books, a thought-provoking installation by artist Kelly McCray. Built from 400 used books, mirrors, surveillance elements, and other meaningful materials, the piece explores censorship, control, and the fight for intellectual freedom. By juxtaposing banned books with themes of surveillance, the installation challenges us to reflect on the power of literature and what’s at stake when access to ideas is restricted.
The display will be available for visitors throughout the spring.
Join a library program
OPL is hosting engaging programs that celebrate intellectual freedom and the power of books:
Test your knowledge of banned and challenged books - past and present! This fun, interactive trivia session will explore the stories and ideas that have sparked debate over the years. Open to adults (18+). Registration required.
Get creative with black-out poetry, a unique art form that transforms existing text into something new. This hands-on workshop for tweens (ages 9–12) is a great way to explore literature while making something uniquely your own.
Explore OPL reading lists
Browse several staff-selected lists of titles that have been challenged in Canada and around the world.
Learn More
Freedom to Read Week is organized nationally by the Freedom of Expression Committee of the Book and Periodical Council. Visit freedomtoread.ca for more resources on book challenges, censorship, and the importance of the right to read.