Constitution, and individuals have the right to free inquiry and the equally important right to form their own opinions; and
WHEREAS, books do not require readers to agree with topics or themes but instead allow readers to explore and engage with differing perspectives to form and inform their own views; and
WHEREAS, over the last several years, there has been a significant increase in censorship activities in the United States resulting in books being removed from library shelves and schools; and
WHEREAS, book bans often seek to impose restrictions on students and families based on the political, cultural or religious beliefs of the individuals calling for book bans; and
WHEREAS, librarians make knowledge and ideas available so that people have the freedom to choose what to read; and
WHEREAS, efforts to restrict and ban books are often targeted to those written by and about people from marginalized backgrounds and those whose communities have been unrepresented in literature; and
WHEREAS, numerous bills have been introduced in states across the country that would restrict books and curricula on race and gender in schools; and
WHEREAS, the Piscataway Library Board of Trustees embraces the freedom to read as a cornerstone of democracy; and
WHEREAS, the Piscataway Library Board of Trustees declare their opposition to the banning of books in any form; and
WHEREAS, the Piscataway Public Library Board of Trustees affirms a diversity of experiences and perspectives and recognizes the equal humanity and dignity of all persons; and
WHEREAS, the Piscataway Public Library previously adopted the Library Bill of Rights and supports the freedom to read, including the adoption of the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement; and
WHEREAS, the Piscataway Public Library has a materials selection process that is set forth in its Collection Development Policy adopted by the Library Board of Trustees.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Piscataway Public Library Board of Trustees declares that the Piscataway Public Library is a book sanctuary. As a book Sanctuary, the Library shall be a place where: people can borrow and read challenged books; endangered books are accessible; host book talks and other events that may include banned and challenged books; and educate others about the history of book banning.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Piscataway Public Library on October 6, 2025.