By Kylian Galtier / Staff Writer

Murrell Library hosted a presentation on banned books Oct. 6, highlighting the importance of literature, the dangers of censorship and the role libraries play in connecting people through shared stories. The event, organized by evening library assistant Daniel Wright, featured Sarah Otto as guest speaker.

Wright said the event was an opportunity to discuss an important issue with the Missouri Valley College community.

“It’s important for us to know that censorship disconnects us and makes it harder for us to understand each other on a human level,” Wright said.

Samantha Perkins, assistant dean of Library and Academic Support Services, said the presentation helped promote open discussion.

“It celebrates the freedom to read and raises awareness of the dangers of censorship,” Perkins said.

The event was Wright’s first as an organizer and took a new approach by examining censorship through the lens of K–12 education. Students, faculty and staff attended to learn how book challenges and bans often begin at the school level.

A central idea of the discussion, Wright explained, was that “every book is either a mirror or a window.”

“When we read a book and look into a mirror, we see a reflection of our own lives,” he said. “When we read a book and look through a window, we see the world from someone else’s perspective. Books that tend to be challenged or banned are often those that help us see through windows.”

This was the first time Sarah Otto, a Marshall Public Schools librarian, presented at Missouri Valley College. She previously gave a similar talk at the Marshall Public Library but said she was excited to adapt it for a college audience.

“I was most excited to present to college-aged students,” Otto said. “I’ve presented to adults and young students before, but not this age group.”

Otto, who has worked in public education for 17 years, shared insights from her experience as both a teacher and librarian. She said creating an inclusive, welcoming library space is central to her work.

“I’ve made it my mission to create a library where all students feel seen, supported and empowered,” Otto said. “The library is more than just a room full of books—it’s a hub of curiosity, creativity and community.”

The evening included a presentation followed by a collaborative activity that encouraged discussion about book challenges and bans. Otto presented examples of well-known titles that have faced censorship and explored the reasons behind those bans.

Students left with a greater understanding of how censorship affects access to information and how libraries continue to defend intellectual freedom.

“Events like this remind us that every book matters,” Wright said. “When we protect the right to read, we protect the right to understand each other.”