The Fourth Annual Read-In at Kent State honored banned and challenged books on Sept. 25 at Taylor Hall. The event had several sponsors and partners, including the School of Communication Studies, Flash Activities Board (FAB) and Her Campus Kent State.   

The event offered a full roster of activities, including a FAB table with origami and pages from banned books and a “blind date with a book” from Her Campus, where you could take a mystery wrapped book to keep and open later.

Guests also had the opportunity to go up to an open microphone and share their experiences or memories with banned books and other creative works, including banned songs.

Stephanie Smith, a professor in the College of Communication and Information, was the lead organizer for the event and played a crucial role in its creation. She believes the read-in will continue to expand.

“We have seen not only increases in attendance, but increases in the number of students who take the microphone. More students are finding their voice and coming up and speaking,” Smith said. 

There was also free food, raffle prizes and a costume contest, all of which Smith said is meant to call attention to a bigger issue. 

“The American Library Association tracks bans every year, and in 2023, the last year they closed with the data, they saw a 65% increase on attempted book bannings,” she explained. 

“A lot of people think ‘well, a challenge, that’s not so bad,’ Yes it is, because the book is usually removed from circulation while an investigation goes on. So that book is essentially as good as banned.”  

Vera LeCount, a junior fashion merchandising major and the vice president of Her Campus Kent State, emphasized why banned books should be discussed. 

“It’s regarding our future generations and the books and literature they’ll be able to have access to,” she said. “I think it’s important to understand what the books under fire are, because there are a lot of books, when I first did research into this, that I didn’t realize would even be a consideration [to be banned]. So I think it’s important to really just know the facts and the full truth of what books fall under the ban.” 

Smith’s inspiration for initially creating the read-in was the fact that her parents were very passionate about the first amendment. 

“I have the right to read and speak as I choose,” Smith said. “When you put a book in a child’s hand, and especially if you’re non-judgmental about that book, you’re going to change that child’s life. I know this to be true.”

Aryn Kauble is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].