A student-led Banned Book Club at Iowa City West High School has gained official recognition after a federal judge temporarily blocked a law restricting books in school libraries, allowing the club to meet regularly.

The club was formed in response to Iowa's law banning certain books with sexual content from classrooms, with students choosing titles like 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'Nineteen Minutes' to read and discuss.

Despite initial challenges such as being unable to advertise within the school and low membership, the club persisted and grew, meeting weekly to discuss banned and reshelved books like 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' and 'Fahrenheit 451'.

The founders, now juniors, see the club as student-led and independent, planning reading lists and coordinating with the public library due to limited copies in the school library, and they are prepared to continue their efforts if the legal restrictions are lifted.

While book challenges in Iowa have decreased, the state remains a leader in book removals, and students view the club as a way to educate peers and foster friendship through shared stories.

Students regard the club as a vital response to the difficulty of discussing banned books openly, emphasizing the importance of access to diverse literature and meaningful conversations.

The club promotes open, judgment-free discussions focused on understanding themes, characters, and the reasons behind book bans, aiming to encourage critical thinking and access to diverse perspectives.