This week, libraries across the U.S. are observing Banned Books Week. Led by states like Texas, Tennessee, and Florida, book bans continue to rise—limiting access to vital educational resources and silencing diverse voices, especially within marginalized communities.
That’s why librarians like Unit 13 members Lani Kawahara of Lihue Public Library and Jenny Silbiger of the Judiciary were highlighted by Civil Beat and Hawaii Public Radio for their effort to push back. A librarian for over 28 years, Kawahara protests these bans through her annual book display, promoting Hawaii’s mission of ensuring all community members have the “Freedom to Read,” according to Civil Beat.
Silbiger openly condemns the bans telling Civil Beat, “Everyone’s story is worth being heard, read, celebrated, and protected. For all that is good and human. And that’s where libraries come in.”
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