Teens Engage in Reading: The Influence of ‘Banned Book Club’ Anime and Third Spaces
In the bustling city of New York, teens are diving into the world of reading through innovative programs like the Banned Book Club, led by the New York Public Library (NYPL). Siva Ramakrishnan, the director of Young Adult Programs & Services at NYPL, sheds light on the impact of this club and how it is reshaping the reading landscape for young individuals.
Teens Are Reading, and More
The NYPL has witnessed a surge in teen readership, with 700,000 physical and e-book circulations recorded for teens alone during the 2023-24 fiscal year. Contrary to common belief, young people are flocking to libraries in greater numbers than ever before, utilizing these spaces not just for books but also as hubs for socializing, Wi-Fi access, homework completion, and engaging in diverse programs like 3D printing.
Banned Books
However, the joy of reading is not without its challenges. In 2023, a staggering 4,240 books were banned from schools and libraries nationwide, particularly targeting materials aimed at young people, often authored by or featuring individuals of color or from the LGBTQ+ community. Ramakrishnan emphasizes that these bans strike at the heart of the reading ecosystem for children, affecting both schools and libraries.
The NYPL’s Banned Book Club for teens aims to counter this trend by delving into thought-provoking titles such as “Flamer,” “Run: Book One,” “Go With the Flow,” and “The Magic Fish.” Each book is accompanied by a discussion guide, offering participants a platform to engage with the themes and stories presented, fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives in literature.
Reading is Reading is Reading
To cultivate a lifelong love for reading, it is crucial to instill healthy reading habits in students early on, between fourth and seventh grades. According to Torres, facilitating literacy involves understanding that reading habits in today’s digital age encompass various forms, from audiobooks to anime subtitles.
Educators play a pivotal role in guiding students towards genres and formats that resonate with their interests, helping them navigate the vast world of literature. Platforms like NoveList offer valuable resources for finding books tailored to individual preferences, complementing the physical reading experience with digital tools.
Developing Reading Stamina
For students who may not frequent libraries regularly, it is essential to embrace the diversity of reading experiences beyond traditional novels. Torres emphasizes the importance of recognizing different reading styles and encouraging students to explore various literary avenues, from video games to graphic novels.
By expanding literary spaces and embracing the multifaceted nature of reading, educators can empower students to develop strong reading stamina and engage with texts in meaningful ways. Through initiatives like the Banned Book Club and inclusive library programs, organizations like NYPL are paving the way for a new generation of avid readers.
So, how can we as a community support teens in embracing reading diversity and cultivating a love for literature?
