Banned Books Week's purpose is to bring together communities of book readers and lovers of all levels to support the freedom to seek and express ideas, even if some consider them unpopular or distasteful.  

Launched in the 1980s, this event was used as a peaceful protest against books labeled as "challenged" or "censored." The American Booksellers Association, along with other organizations, brings awareness to these banned novels and sparks conversations around the issue The books featured during Banned Books Week are books that have all been targeted with removal or restricted in libraries and schools. It draws national attention to the harms of censorship.