The story of book bans and book censorship is centuries old — and it has always been political. Throughout history, people in power have tried to silence ideas they considered dangerous. Books were banned, pulled from circulation, and even burned to send a message: “These thoughts are not allowed.”

In the 20th century, governments and regimes around the world censored and destroyed books to control what people could think, say, and believe. Authors who were considered “undesirable” ended up blacklisted or erased. Sometimes it was because they were critical of those in power. Sometimes because their work was considered too liberal, too religious, too progressive, not patriotic enough, or simply “from the wrong side.” The point was never that the books themselves were violent objects. The point was to remove voices that offered a different view of reality.

This is not just history.

Book bans are happening today — in schools, libraries, and bookstores around the world. Very often, the targeted titles deal with topics like LGBTQ+ rights, racism, religion, gender equality, human rights, or the experience of marginalized groups. The pattern repeats across countries and cultures: restrictions are pushed by institutions, authorities, or organized groups that position themselves as conservative, nationalist, or authoritarian. The goal is to limit freedom of expression in order to protect or strengthen power.

It can be tempting to respond to that with: “Fine. Then we’ll ban their books.”
But that uses the same tool we’re standing against. Censorship doesn’t fix the problem. It repeats it. And it can even give those ideas more attention and turn them into something “forbidden,” which can make them more appealing.

Where Bookbot Stands

At Bookbot, we believe in freedom of expression and open, democratic dialogue. We believe that strong societies are built on discussion and debate — not on silence.

That is why we do not intentionally censor the selection of pre-owned books available on our platform, except where we are legally required to do so under local law (for example, content that is illegal to distribute).

Our mission is to make books easier to access — by making them more affordable and easier to get. We want anyone who wants to read to be able to read.

What We Do Not Support

At the same time, we are not “neutral” about human dignity.

As a company, we hold a clear and consistent position: we reject discrimination in any form.

Inside our team and in the way we communicate publicly, we value diversity — regardless of origin, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion or belief, health or disability status.

Because of that, we do not actively promote or privilege books, messages, or campaigns that encourage hate, dehumanization, or discrimination against any group of people. Giving people access to books is one thing. Actively amplifying hate is another. We don’t do that.

If You See a Problem

If you ever see an ad, post, or marketing message from Bookbot that features a book or wording that spreads hate, encourages violence, or humiliates a person or a group of people, that is not intentional. That is a mistake. And it needs to be fixed immediately.

Please tell us so we can correct it.

You can reach us at: info@bookbot.com