The Uncensored Library: Banned Journalism Inside Minecraft

The Uncensored Library is a virtual project built inside the video game Minecraft to house books and articles banned by oppressive governments. Reported by external organizations, this initiative aims to provide access to restricted journalism and writings that disappear under authoritarian regimes.

Background and Creation

Reporters Without Borders sought a way to share controlled information and utilized Minecraft, a block-based sandbox game developed by Mojang Studios. Released on March 12, 2020, on World Day Against Cyber Censorship, the project was built by 24 builders and experts from 16 countries who worked for 250 hours. Led by Minecraft design studio BlockWorks in collaboration with Reporters Without Borders, the structure used over 12.5 million Minecraft blocks.

Content and Scope

• Features articles from countries such as Egypt, Belarus, Brazil, Eritrea, Iran, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and the United States.
• Consists of around 300 works and continues to grow.
• Banned texts are stored to bypass government surveillance technology while remaining uneditable on the server.

How to Access the Library

• Ensure you have a valid Minecraft account and install Minecraft: Java Edition.
• Open the launcher, select Minecraft: Java Edition, use release version 1.21.11, and press Play.
• From the main menu, choose Multiplayer, then select Direct Connect.
• Enter the server address `visit.uncensoredlibrary.com` and press Join Server.

Verify original announcements and server addresses directly through official project channels before connecting. Editorial note: Always review software requirements and terms of service independently.