With the dawn of October comes the fervent echo of Banned Books Week. It’s a potent reminder and a rallying cry, illuminating the sacred path to preserve our inherent freedom to read. This year, as we immerse ourselves in the sentiments of Banned Books Week, we face a tide that jeopardizes not just our esteemed institutions like public schools and libraries, but the very essence of our democratic values. As noted by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, we are amidst a time when orchestrated efforts are muffling voices, rewriting authentic narratives, and distorting undeniable truths.

Recent history bears witness to a concerning national drift: intensified endeavors to ban pivotal literature, recalibrate school curriculums, and destabilize the bedrock of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Such pursuits not only assail our expressive freedoms but also strike at the core pillars of equality, justice, and mutual respect.

A poignant reflection of this erosion is evident in the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Here, the war against our intrinsic rights and shared legacy has left deep scars. A staggering 28 librarians were abruptly relieved from their roles, and over 50 foundational school libraries were supplanted by detention facilities, predominantly in schools serving Black and Brown communities. This pivot, as analysts have pointed out, not only hampers the educational prospects but widens the inequality chasm for these communities.

Yet, resilience defines Harris County. In a defiant response at our recent Commissioners Court confluence, the Harris County Public Library (HCPL) was christened a “book sanctuary.” A testament to our unyielding resolve to foster an environment where every voice resonates, every tale holds significance, and every thought is accorded its due. In essence, our libraries stand as luminous sanctuaries of erudition and awakening, where intellectual diversity thrives, unhindered.

In the spirit of Banned Books Week, let’s renew our vow to resist those shadowy forces attempting to erase our legacy, mute our histories, and restrict our access to the vast spectrum of human sagas. Dive into the rich tapestry of HCPL’s collection, and embrace the myriad voices that shape our societal fabric.

Bound by a shared purpose, we stand resolute in our quest to ensure our libraries perpetuate as guiding lights of wisdom, and our community thrives, undeterred by challenges.

Hand in hand, let’s fortify our pledge, ensuring our libraries shine as luminous pillars of wisdom and our community stays undaunted, even when tested.