Top Tips for Organizing Your Event

1. Read our guidance for event organizers and speakers. Follow these simple instructions to keep the Freedom to Read Community Day of Action a nonpartisan event.

2. Pick a time on Saturday, October 19, that will work best for your community.

3. Choose a location where a crowd can gather. Be sure to prepare any tech (microphones, screens, stage) you may need.

4. Coordinate with local officials and police to help keep your event safe and fun for all. Check back soon for more guidance on best practices and safety.

5. Get informed! Check out these talking points and key messages about book bans and challenges and what we are hoping to achieve with the Freedom to Read Community Day of Action.

6. Gather speakers. Invite people who are passionate about the freedom to read to speak about it. Consider local community leaders, authors, librarians, or educators who want to share personal stories, elected officials (but not candidates for office), and performers. Be sure to choose an emcee who can facilitate the event! Share with them all the guidance for event organizers and speakers.

7. Consider having music or a DJ.

8. Gather partners. Invite other local organizations and groups who may be interested in participating, e.g. nonpartisan voter education groups, faith-based organizations, school leadership, or local small businesses.

9. Plan activations and activities. Consider hosting family-friendly activities and programs leading up to, during, or following your event, such as:

• • A march, parade, or rally with sign-making and participation prompts
  • Banned book storytimes and community read-ins
  • Panel discussions that include student perspectives
  • Community murals, button- and bookmark-making, arts and crafts
  • Film screenings
  • Book displays of banned materials or book recommendations
  • Giveaways and merch (buttons, stickers, bookmarks)
  • Civic participation stations to check voter registration and create a plan to vote

10. Spread the word!

• • Use the poster and flyer below in your community to let people know about your Day of Action
  • Use our social media toolkit to get the word out online!
  • Reach out to local press who may want to cover the event two to three days beforehand. Download this sample media advisory and personalize it with your own logo and event information.
  • Register your event with us so we can include you on our list of participating sites around the country.