How to Start a Banned Books Club at Your School
Starting a Banned Books Club is a powerful way to bring students together, spark meaningful conversations, and take action against censorship. If you’ve ever wanted a space to read, discuss, and celebrate books that others have tried to silence, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating one at your school.
Step 1: Find Your Why
Think about what excites you about banned books. Is it defending free expression? Seeing yourself in stories others want hidden? Or just the thrill of reading what someone said you couldn’t? Write down your motivation—it will help you explain the club’s purpose to others.
Step 2: Get Support
Most schools require a faculty advisor for student clubs. Reach out to a teacher or librarian who cares about intellectual freedom—they’ll often be thrilled to help. Their support can also smooth the approval process with school administrators.
Step 3: Make It Official
Check your school’s rules for starting a club. Usually, you’ll need:
An advisor’s name
A short description of the club’s purpose
A list of interested students
A proposed meeting schedule
Keep your mission simple: “We read and discuss banned and challenged books to understand their impact and celebrate the freedom to read.”
Step 4: Pick Your First Books
Choose a few titles that are both engaging and conversation-worthy. Some great starting points:
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Start with one book per month—or even shorter excerpts if you want to ease people in.
Step 5: Plan Fun, Open Discussions
Meetings don’t have to be heavy. Mix reading with activities:
Book discussions led by students
Creative projects (art, zines, posters) inspired by banned books
Movie nights of book adaptations
Guest speakers (teachers, authors, librarians)
The goal is to make the club feel welcoming and energizing, not like another homework assignment.
Step 6: Spread the Word
Make flyers, post on social media, and ask teachers to announce your club in class. Highlight that anyone can join—even if they haven’t finished the book. A good tagline: “Read what they don’t want you to.”
Step 7: Connect Beyond Your School
Link your club to larger movements like Banned Books Week or national organizations (Unite Against Book Bans, Freedom to Read Project, etc.). You can even trade book lists with other schools or libraries.
Step 8: Celebrate Your Impact
Keep track of what your group reads and how you’ve grown. Share reflections through a blog, zine, or social media. Celebrate each banned book you’ve rescued from silence.
Starting a Banned Books Club isn’t just about reading—it’s about creating a space where students can question, imagine, and celebrate the freedom to think. With just a little organization and a lot of passion, you can build a community that stands up for stories and the people they represent.