Exercising a right as simple as reading can be challenged thus limiting public access to the written word. Freedom to Read Week begins Feb 24 to March 2 all across Canada. In its 29th year, schools, art venues and libraries will be participating to show their support.

In its fifth year at the Strathmore Municipal Library, the project takes a look at books challenged for having controversial themes within their pages.

One would think having a week dedicated to it must speak to the evolution of literature and where are we now.

Literature is more edgier. The topics are more edgier such as the 50 Shades of Gray that was such a prominent book this yearbut you wouldnt have a book like this kicking around many years ago, says Assistant Director of Library Services, Carmen Erison.

Theres always going to be controversy in literature.

All books featured have been collectively banned worldwide, however, most the books featured in the towns library are North America based.

When Im preparing a display such as this I do research on that are mostly in North Americain Canada we celebrate Freedom to Read while the US celebrates Banned Books week, says Erison.

Childrens books, adult fiction, graphic novels, juvenile fiction, young adult, and non-fiction have been subjected to the chopping block.

What I challenge readers to envision, is walking into a library and seeing a bunch of empty bookshelves because thats what could happen if you were to ban all books if it had some content that you find distasteful, says Erison.

Surprisingly, titles such as Little House on the Prairie: On the Banks of Plum Creek, many graphic novels and most recently

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Freedom to Read Week hits Strathmore 0