Books have always been a source of knowledge, imagination and inspiration for people of all ages. They have the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to diverse characters and teach us valuable lessons. However, not everyone has equal access to books. In an effort to bridge this gap, Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) has launched a national e-lending program, Books UnBanned, specifically targeting young readers.
“It’s our entire book collection,” said Amy Mikel, the Director of Youth & Family Services at BPL, when asked about the program. “Half a million books are now available for children, tweens and teens across the United States, completely free of charge.”
The idea for Books UnBanned came about when the library noticed a gap in access to e-books for children. While there are numerous e-book lending programs for adults, there were limited options for young readers. This was a concern, as studies have shown that children who have access to books are more likely to develop a love for reading and perform better academically.
Recognizing the importance of early literacy and the need for diverse reading options, BPL took the initiative to create Books UnBanned. The program not only offers a wide range of titles, but also prioritizes diversity and inclusion in its selection. “We want every child to see themselves in the books they read,” said Mikel. “Representation matters and Books UnBanned strives to provide a diverse and inclusive collection for our young readers.”
The program has received overwhelming support from both authors and publishers. Many have donated their books to the program and expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to reach a wider audience. “It’s a win-win situation,” says Mikel. “Authors and publishers get to promote their work while also making a positive impact on the lives of young readers.”
With the rise of technology and the increasing popularity of e-books, online lending programs have become a necessity. However, many programs charge a subscription fee or have limited titles available. Books UnBanned, on the other hand, is completely free and offers a vast collection of books, making it accessible to all.
The program has already made a significant impact in its short time since its launch. It has reached readers in all 50 states and has received positive feedback from parents, teachers and librarians. “Books UnBanned has been a game-changer for our school,” says Sarah Jones, a teacher from Kansas. “Many of our students don’t have access to books at home, so being able to borrow e-books for free has really encouraged them to read more.”
But Books UnBanned is not just about providing free books. It also aims to promote a love for reading and learning. “We want to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience for children,” says Mikel. The program offers interactive activities and challenges for young readers, encouraging them to engage with the books they borrow. It also hosts virtual book clubs and author events, bringing children closer to their favorite books and authors.
The impact of Books UnBanned goes beyond just promoting literacy. It also addresses the issue of book censorship. The program offers books that have been banned or challenged in certain communities, giving readers access to diverse and sometimes controversial perspectives. This not only promotes freedom of speech but also encourages critical thinking and open-mindedness among young readers.
Moreover, Books UnBanned also provides access to books in different languages, catering to the needs of non-English speaking communities. “We want to make sure that every child, regardless of their language, has access to books,” says Mikel. This not only benefits children who are learning English as a second language but also promotes cultural understanding and appreciation.
The success of Books UnBanned has inspired other libraries to start similar programs in their communities. Mikel, along with her team, is currently working to expand the program and make it available in more languages and countries. “Our ultimate goal is to reach as many young readers as possible and make books accessible to all,” she says.
In a world where technology is rapidly advancing and traditional forms of media are becoming less prevalent, programs like Books UnBanned are crucial in promoting literacy and a love for reading among the younger generation. It serves as a reminder that books, in any form, are still a powerful tool for learning, growth, and empathy.
So, to all the young readers out there, Books UnBanned is waiting for you with its diverse and inclusive collection,
