Books on the Chopping Block

Banned Books Week is an annual event that celebrates the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment. Banned Books Week highlights the free and open access to information while drawing attention to the harms of censorship. The event spotlights the actual or attempted banning of selected books across the United States. Books on the Chopping Block is City Lit Theater’s annual performance of live dramatic readings by professional actors. The 60-minute performance is adapted from excerpts from the top 10 most frequently challenged books of 2025 presented in a countdown from 10 – 1 with an audience discussion and Q&A to follow. Held in partnership with Friends of the Edgewater Library AccessibilityNeed sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo source: City Lit Theater